MacBook Error Code 50: How to Fix Mac Errors on an External Hard Drive

Overview: What is Mac Error Code 50

Are you puzzled by the Error Code 50 on your Mac? If you're new to Mac or have never encountered this issue before, you might feel panicked. However, **Mac Error Code 50** is a common problem that many Apple users frequently run into. It occurs when users attempt to copy or move files from an external hard drive to the system.

Error code 50 on an external drive reads, "The operation can't be completed because of an unexpected error (error code -50)." This error message indicates that your Mac is having issues with a file it's trying to process.

There could be numerous reasons behind this error. Having more information will help you apply the correct solution with ease.

Prepare Ahead: Recovering Data When Error Codes Strike

Are you eager to fix the Error 50 issue on your Mac? We understand your anxiety and the need to resolve the problem. Although there are various solutions, it's crucial to acknowledge that data loss might occur. In such a scenario, you should actively seek software that can assist you in recovering lost data.

For this process, you can use a(n) Mac Data Recovery Wizard tool. It's an excellent data recovery program with a broad range of features. The software is user-friendly and specifically designed to help people recover deleted files from Mac Trash, no matter the circumstances. Whether it's due to a malware attack or formatting, you can relatively quickly restore your data.

Highlight:

- Recover various types of data, such as photos, music files, videos, documents, etc. - Retrieve data easily from Mac devices, including SSD, HDD, fusion drives, and more. - Send recovered data to cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. - Preview files before recovery to view their content.

Aside from that, it also boasts an exciting array of additional features. Furthermore, the tool offers remote IT support, with professional technicians on hand to assist you whenever needed.

Step one: Search for the lost files.

Select the disk location where you want to search for lost files (it can be an internal HDD/SSD or an external drive), and then click the “Search Lost Files” button.

Note: Before data recovery, it's recommended that you click “Disk Backup” from the left sidebar and create a backup of your HDD/SSD to prevent further data loss. After the backup, the software can recover data from your disk backup, and then you can use your HDD or SSD again.

Step 2: Browse the scan results

The software will immediately scan the disk volume you select and show images, documents, audio, video, and email on the left.

Step 3: Choose the files to recover

Click on the data to preview it, and then hit the “Recover” button to get it back.

Reason: Why Do I Get Error Code 50 on External Hard Drive on Mac?

Error code 50 on a Mac can occur due to several reasons. It's crucial to understand these reasons, as they can help you determine how to resolve the issue. Let's explore them:

Reason 1: Corrupted NVRAM or PRAM data

Sometimes, the data in NVRAM and PRAM can become corrupted. This can cause a Mac to display error code 50. Resetting them can help resolve the issue.

Reason 2: A virus or malware infection

Malware or viruses can often have disastrous effects on your system, one of which could be error code 50. You need to clean your system and use a reliable antivirus software to get rid of the virus.

Reason 3: Corrupted system files

If the disk that contains the system files is failing, you won't be able to copy or move them. Booting your Mac into Disk Utility is a good way to address this issue.

Reason 4: Problems with file metadata

This error might occur due to a conflict between the metadata for the file's name and type and what the Finder is expecting. The ideal solution is to manually change the metadata of the file, specifically its name and extension.

Number five: firmware flaws.

Temporary file errors can also lead to Mac error code 50. In this case, the user must run a power cycle to see if that resolves the issue.

Six Solutions: How to Fix Mac Error Code 50 on External Hard Drive

To resolve this issue, there are several solutions to choose from. You can use any of these fix methods to take care of error code 50 on your Mac. You can check them out here:

• 1. Force Restart your Mac
• 2. Cycle the Power on your MacBook
• 3. Unmount External Hard Drive
• 4. Run Disk Utility First Aid
• 5. Restart Mac in Safe Mode
• 6. Reset NVRAM/PRAM Settings

1. Force restart your Mac

Before trying anything else, we'll start with the simplest solution from the list. A simple restart can fix many issues on your Mac. It clears the temporary memory and allows the system to start anew.

To do so, follow these steps:

Step 1. Click the Apple menu.

Step 2: Choose “Restart” from the drop-down menu.

However, if you cannot access the screen or the system is frozen, you can force a restart by holding down the power button until the device turns off. You should be able to turn it back on again a few seconds later.

2. Perform a power cycle on your MacBook

Did you know that you can resolve error code 50 on your Mac by performing a power cycle? This way, you get rid of temporary files that remain even after the system is restarted. Fascinating, right?

All right, so here are the steps –

Step 1: Remove any external storage devices connected to your system.

Step 2: Click the Apple icon.

Step 3: Choose the “Shut Down” option.

Step 4: After the system has shut down, unplug the power cord.

Step Five: Wait a while, then plug it back in.

Step 6. Turn on the device.

Step 7. Reconnect the external device and see if the issue is resolved.

3. Eject the External Hard Drive

Try disconnecting and reconnecting the external drive, too; often, this simple maneuver will resolve the error.

To do so, you will need to follow several steps –

Step 1. Launch the Disk Utility app. Click on the “Applications” folder > “Utilities” > “Disk Utility.”

Step 2: Select the hard drive you want to uninstall.

Step 3: Tap the Uninstall button.

4. Run Disk Utility to fix the problem.

Another way to fix Mac error code 50 is by using the “First Aid” feature, which can be accessed through the “Disk Utility,” and users need to follow simple steps.

Let's look at –

Step 1: Open Disk Utility.

Step 2: In the left sidebar, select the external storage device from which you want to copy or move files.

Step 3: You should see a "First Aid" button at the top. Tap it.

Step 4: Start this process now.

This will take some time, depending on the size of your disk.

5. Restart in Safe Mode

To fix error code 50 on your Mac, you'll need to restart it in Safe Mode. However, the steps will vary slightly depending on your model of Mac.

For Macs with Apple silicon chips, –

Step one: Shut down the system.

Step 2. Press and hold the Power button.

Step 3: Let go when you see 'Loading Boot Options'.

Step 4: Choose your volume.

Step 5: Hold down the Shift key.

Step 5: Select “Continue in Safe Mode.”

Step 5: Once in Safe Mode, you'll see “Safe Boot”

For Intel-based Macs –

Step 1: Turn off your Mac.

Step two: Plug it in.

Step 3. Hold down the Shift key.

Step 4: Release it when you see the login screen.

Step Five: Log in to the system.

Log in again if necessary.

Step 7. When you see the "Secure Boot" menu, you have entered Safe Mode.

If any of these methods helped you fix the Mac error code 50, share on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and so on!

6. Reset the NVRAM/PRAM settings

Lastly, you can try resetting the NVRAM/PRAM. These types of memory store kernel information and other settings for quick access by the system.

Please see the steps below –

Step 1: Power down the system.

Step two: Open it up.

Step 3: Hold down the Option, C, P, and R keys at the same time.

Step 4: Release the keys when you hear two startup sounds.

Step Five: Wait for the sound to stop.

Step 6. Check if the Error 50 has been fixed.

Final Thoughts

Mac error code 50 is an issue commonly encountered by Mac users. Users find themselves unable to move or copy files from an external drive to their system. This issue can arise due to virus attacks, corruption of system files, or firmware issues. However, there are multiple solutions available to address this problem.

For instance, you can try to force-restart your system or reset the NVRAM or PRAM. You can also restart your Mac in Safe Mode. Employing these solutions will help you fix the Mac error code 50. However, data loss might occur while trying to fix the error. In such a case, you can use a Mac Data Recovery Wizard tool.

It is a powerful, reliable, and user-friendly data recovery tool. You can easily recover any type of data with it. Install the Data Recovery Wizard for Mac tool right away!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mac Error Code 50

Now that you know what Mac error code 50 is, it's time to gain more knowledge. For this, read the questions and answers listed below:

1. What does error code 50 mean on a USB drive?

Error code 50 on a USB drive signifies that the user is unable to move or copy files from an external device, such as a USB drive. This error can be caused by several factors, including corruption of NVRAM/PRAM or issues with system files.

How do I fix errors on my Mac hard drive?

There are several ways to fix errors on your Mac hard drive. You can start by force-restarting your system. You can also run a one-click repair tool for your system, or reset the NVRAM/PRAM settings.

How to Fix Error 50 on Your Mac and Verify Your Disk

To perform an Error 50 on a Mac and check your disk, do the following:

1. Open Disk Utility. 2. Choose "First Aid." 3. Next, select the "Verify Disk" option. 4. If errors are found, click the "Repair" button.

How do I recover data from a damaged hard drive?

To recover data from a damaged hard drive, you can use a professional data recovery tool. Try the Data Recovery Wizard for Mac. This recovery software allows you to easily retrieve data from a damaged hard drive.