How to Run File Transfer on Mac: 3 Common Scenarios

Common scenarios for file transfer on Mac

File transfer on a Mac can occur in various scenarios, and here are some common scenarios:

👉 Between Macs

When upgrading to a new Mac, transferring files ensures that all important data is available on the new device.

👉Between Mac and iPhone/iPad

Transferring important documents, photos, and media to your iPhone or iPad allows you to access them on the go, without needing your Mac.

👉 Between Mac and external storage

Transferring files to an external drive can not only help ensure data security in case of hardware failure or accidental deletion but also free up valuable space on your Mac's internal storage.

Then, how to transfer files on Mac? Please continue reading.

👉 How to transfer files from Mac to Mac/iPhone/iPad
👉 How to copy files from Mac to external drive🔥
👉 Troubleshooting file transfer issues on Mac

How to transfer files from Mac to Mac/iPhone/iPad

To transfer files between Macs or between Mac and iPhone/iPad, you can make use of AirDrop. AirDrop allows users to wirelessly transfer files between Apple devices, such as Macs, iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touches. It leverages Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology to create a peer-to-peer connection, enabling fast and secure file sharing without the need for an internet connection. Learn how to use it as follows:

Prerequisites: Ensure both devices have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled and are within close proximity.

1. Enable AirDrop on both devices

• Open Finder and click on AirDrop in the sidebar.
• If AirDrop isn’t already on, click the "Allow me to be discovered by" dropdown at the bottom and select "Everyone" or "Contacts Only".

2. Send a file on the source Mac

• Locate the file you want to share. Right-click the file and select Share > AirDrop.

• Choose the recipient from the list of available devices.

3. Receive a file on the destination Mac/iPhone/iPad

When someone sends you a file via AirDrop, you will see a notification. Click Accept to receive the file.

How to copy files from Mac to external drive

To copy files from Mac to external drive, the best free file sync software for Mac - AOMEI Backupper Mac can give you a hand. It offers all-around sync features to cater to your different needs.

💛 Multiple sync types: You can sync files from source to destination with Basic Sync or Mirror Sync. You can also sync files both sides with Two-Way Sync.
💛 Various sync source and destination: You can select folders on the local disk, external hard drive, network location or NAS device as the sync source or destination.
💛 Schedule Sync: Set a sync task to run Once, Hourly, Daily, Weekly or Monthly based on your need.
💛 File Filtering: Include or exclude specific file/folder types from the sync task.

Download AOMEI Backupper now and follow the steps below to transfer files from Mac to external drive.

AOMEI Backupper Mac

Free Mac sync software to sync files and folders automatically

Download Freeware
macOS 10.15 or later

Prerequisites:
◑ Connect the external drive to your Mac via USB or Thunderbolt.
◑ AOMEI Backupper only supports an external hard drive formatted as exFAT. If your external drive is in other formats, format it as exFAT in advance.

1. Install and launch AOMEI Backupper Mac. In the main interface, click New Task in the top-right corner.

2. Select your desired sync type. Here I take Basic Sync as an example.

3. Click Select Sync Source to choose the folder that contains the files you want to transfer.

4. Click Select Sync Destination to choose the external drive to receive the synced files.

5. Click the clock icon to enable Schedule as necessary. Finally, click on the Sync button to begin file transfer.

Troubleshooting file transfer issues on Mac

Experiencing file transfer issues on your Mac can be frustrating, but most problems can be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you fix these issues:

1. Check the Basics

• Cables and Connections: Ensure that all cables are properly connected. Try using different USB ports or cables to rule out any physical damage.
• Power Supply: If you’re using external drives, make sure they are properly powered.

2. Update Software

• macOS: Ensure that your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. Go to System Preferences > Software Update to check for updates.
• Device Firmware: If you’re transferring files to external devices like smartphones or cameras, make sure their firmware is up to date.

3. Restart Devices

• Restart Your Mac: A simple restart can resolve many issues. Click the Apple logo and select Restart.
• Restart External Devices: Turn off and on the external devices you’re trying to connect.

4. Check Permissions

• File Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to transfer the files. Right-click the file, select Get Info, and adjust permissions under the Sharing & Permissions section.
• External Drive Permissions: Check if the external drive has read and write permissions.

5. Use Disk Utility

• First Aid: Open Disk Utility and select the drive. Click First Aid to check for and repair any issues with the drive.
• Reformat Drive: If the drive is not recognized or is corrupt, reformatting may be necessary. Note that reformatting will erase all data on the drive, so back up any important files first.

Verdict

File transfer on Mac is a common operation. By following the guidance above, you can transfer files between Macs, between Mac and iPhone/iPad, and between Mac and external storage easily and safely. AirDrop is ideal for small file transfer while AOMEI Backupper Mac is better for large file transfer.

As the best file copy software for Mac, AOMEI Backupper Mac can help you transfer files between various locations, and the changed files can be copied automatically if you enable the Schedule feature. Why not give it a shot?