[Fixed] Target Disk Mode Not Functioning on macOS Ventura/Monterey

The following methods will assist you in resolving the issue of Target Disk Mode not functioning on your Mac. Click "Full Steps" to proceed directly to the desired method:

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Why Isn't Target Disk Mode Working on My Mac?

The macOS base system has consistently undergone significant revisions by the innovative minds behind it. Target Disk Mode is a boot feature that simplifies the process of transferring files. It allows you to easily move data using USB, USB-C, or Thunderbolt cables when your Mac is in startup or boot mode. This mode essentially emulates the function of an external hard drive. To activate Target Disk Mode, hold down the "T" key while your Mac is starting up.

Occasionally, you might encounter the issue of Target Disk Mode not working on your Mac. Before diving into the solutions, let's explore the possible reasons behind this issue on macOS Ventura, or Monterey.

Target Disk Mode might occasionally fail to show up on the host computer, the connected Mac might not recognize the attached Mac as an external hard drive, or the Target Disk Mode via USB-C might not be functioning properly. There could be several reasons for this issue on your M1 Mac.

The typical reason is utilizing the incorrect port or cable for your Mac computer. Additionally, here are some other potential causes:

• Incorrect Hard Drive format. Verify if your hard drive has the correct format.
• External files are set to be hidden in Finder. Make sure your files and folders are accessible regularly.
• Hardware issue. Ensure your computer is connected using a Thunderbolt cable, not a USB or USB-C cable.

Regardless of the reason, you should be able to boot your Mac into Target Disk Mode on Apple Silicon Mac or initiate Target Disk Mode on an Intel Mac using the excellent troubleshooting methods outlined below.

Solution 1: Update macOS Version on Your Mac to Resolve Target Disk Mode Issues

Occasionally, your Mac might be formatted as APFS when you need to boot it in Target Disk Mode. In such a scenario, the computer you connect it to must be running macOS High Sierra or a later version. Older software is unable to recognize the APFS format, thus preventing it from acknowledging your Mac.

To resolve this issue, you can update to the latest version of macOS on the Mac to which you intend to transfer files. It's also recommended that you verify if you have sufficient free storage space before initiating the update.

You can update your Mac to High Sierra or later (Ventura/Monterey) by following these steps: 1. Ensure your Mac is compatible: Check if your Mac model and macOS version are compatible with High Sierra, Ventura, or Monterey. Visit Apple's official website for the latest system requirements. 2. Backup your data: Before any major update, it's crucial to back up your important files and documents using Time Machine or an external storage device. This ensures you have a copy of your data in case anything goes wrong during the update process. 3. Connect to the internet: Make sure your Mac is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. 4. Launch the App Store: Click on the App Store icon in your Dock. 5. Check for updates: In the App Store, click on the "Updates" tab located at the top menu bar. The system will automatically search for available updates. 6. Find the macOS update: If there's an update available for High Sierra, Ventura, or Monterey, it will appear in the list. Click on the "Update" button next to the relevant macOS version. 7. Review the terms and conditions: A window will pop up with the software license agreement. Read through it, then agree to the terms if you wish to proceed. 8. Download and install: The update will begin downloading. Depending on the size of the update and your internet speed, this may take some time. Once the download is complete, the installation process will start automatically. Your Mac might restart during this process. 9. Wait for the installation: Do not turn off or disturb your Mac while it's installing the update. It's normal for the screen to go black during this time. 10. Complete the setup: After the installation is finished, your Mac will restart again, and you'll be prompted to complete any remaining setup steps, such as configuring user accounts or settings. 11. Verify the new version: Open System Preferences, then click on "Software Update" to ensure that your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. By following these steps, you should successfully update your Mac to High Sierra or later (Ventura/Monterey).

Step 1. Access "System Preferences" by clicking the Apple menu in the bottom-right corner of your screen.

Step 2. In the sidebar, click on "General".

Step 3. Finally, click "Software Update" on the right and update your Mac.

In most instances, updating your Mac can resolve "Target Disk Mode" issues. However, if this doesn't work for you or you're unable to update your Mac to High Sierra or later, you'll need to examine the file format your Mac is using while in Target Disk Mode.

So, keep reading this article and see the steps below on how to reformat your Mac to resolve Target Disk Mode issues.

Solution 2: Resolve Target Disk Mode Not Working by Reformatting Your Mac

You need to verify the file system format your Mac is utilizing, as Target Disk Mode will only function when connected to another Mac running High Sierra or later if your Mac is formatted in APFS. To check the format of your Mac, follow these steps:

Step 1. Restart your Mac if it's currently in Target Disk Mode.

Step 2. From the "Utilities" folder, open Disk Utility for Mac.

Step 3. From the sidebar, select "Macintosh HD". You can see the hard drive format beneath its name at the top of the window.

If your Mac is formatted in APFS, you'll need to erase the drive and reformat your Mac's storage. However, it's crucial to back up your Mac beforehand, as failing to do so will result in the loss of all your data.

Now, follow the steps to erase the drive:

Step 1. In Disk Utility, go to "View" and then select "Show All Devices."

Step 2. Select the parent folder of your Mac's hard drive and click "Erase."

Step 3. Choose the "Format," "Scheme," and "Name" you want to use.

Note: We recommend selecting GUID Partition Map and Mac OS Extended (Journaled).

Step 4. Click "Erase" to reformat the Mac.

Step 5. Lastly, restore your data backup and verify if Target Disk Mode is now working.

Solution 3: Verify Availability of Ports and Cables on your Mac

If Target Disk mode is functioning but you're unable to connect it to another Mac, there could be an issue with the cable or port you're utilizing. Therefore, it's essential to inspect the cables and ports employed for the file transfer.

Use a cable that is compatible with Target Disk Mode. You can refer to this guide to figure out which cables support data transfer in Target Disk Mode.

1. What Cables Are Needed for Target Disk Mode?

Here's a list of cables and ports that you can use for Target Disk Mode: - FireWire Cable (400 or 800): This is a cable specifically designed for FireWire connections, which were common on older Macs. It connects two Macs via their FireWire ports. - Thunderbolt Cable: For newer Mac models with Thunderbolt ports, you'll need a Thunderbolt cable to connect them in Target Disk Mode. - USB-C Cable: If your Macs have USB-C ports, you can use a USB-C cable to connect them. Make sure it supports data transfer, not just charging. - USB-A to USB-C Cable: If one or both of your Macs have a USB-C port but you have an older USB-A port on accessories or the other Mac, you'll need this cable. - Ethernet Cable (with USB or Thunderbolt Ethernet Adapter): In some cases, you can connect two Macs via Ethernet using a USB or Thunderbolt Ethernet adapter and an Ethernet cable. This method may require a network setup beforehand. Remember, the specific cable needed depends on the available ports on your Macs.

• Thunderbolt 3
• Thunderbolt 2
• FireWire

Inspect your Mac's ports on Apple's website and endeavor to utilize high-quality, official cables to connect your devices. You can utilize a USB-C cable in the Thunderbolt 3 port, as both ports function similarly on the Mac.

2. How to Verify if Ports and Cables are Functioning Correctly

Here's how you can verify if Ports and Cables are functioning properly: 1. **Check the Cable Connection**: Ensure that the cable connecting your device (e.g., computer, smartphone) to the port (USB, HDMI, Ethernet) is securely plugged in at both ends. Gently tug on the cable to confirm it's seated firmly. 2. **Try Another Cable**: If possible, swap the current cable with another known working one to rule out any cable issues. This will help determine if the problem lies with the cable or the port itself. 3. **Test Different Devices**: Connect a different device to the same port to see if it works. This helps identify whether the issue is with the device or the port. 4. **Port Functionality Test**: On a computer, you can check the port functionality by plugging in a device that typically triggers an automatic response, such as a USB drive or a mouse. If the system recognizes the device, the port is likely functioning correctly. 5. **Device Manager Check**: For Windows users, open Device Manager, locate the relevant category (e.g., USB controllers, Network adapters), and expand it. Look for any devices with exclamation marks or yellow triangles, which indicate a problem. Right-click and update the driver if needed. 6. **System Restart**: Sometimes, a simple restart of your computer or other device can resolve temporary connectivity issues. 7. **OS Updates**: Make sure your operating system is up to date, as updates often contain bug fixes that could address port-related problems. 8. **Contact Support**: If all else fails, consult the manufacturer's support or a professional technician for further assistance, especially if you suspect hardware damage. By following these steps, you should be able to determine whether the ports and cables are functioning as they should be.

Begin by swapping the ports on your devices, and if it starts functioning properly in another port, then your original port is likely faulty. If this doesn't resolve the issue, try using a different cable to see if the new one functions well.

Sometimes you're certain that the used cables/ports are functioning correctly, try this technical trick to resolve the issue you're encountering:

Step 1. Select the Apple menu and go to "About This Mac".

Step 2. Double-click your serial number, then press Command-C to copy it.

Step 3. Navigate to the "Tech Specs" page, click on the search bar for specifications, press Command-V to paste your Mac's serial number, and initiate the search.

This will display all the ports on your Mac, giving you an idea of which ports and cables can be utilized.

Solution 4: Adjust Finder Preferences to Resolve Target Disk Mode Not Working

Target Disk mode might be activated on your Mac, but due to a Finder issue, it might not be visible. Adjusting your Finder preferences could potentially resolve the problem. However, if that doesn't work, Disk Utility could assist you in locating your Target Disk mode.

Here are the steps to resolve this issue by modifying Finder preferences: 1. **Open Finder**: First, launch the Finder application on your Mac. It is usually represented by a blue icon with a smiling face in your Dock. 2. **Access Preferences**: At the top of the screen, click on the Finder menu (not the Apple menu) and then select "Preferences" from the drop-down menu. This will open the Finder Preferences window. 3. **Select the "General" Tab**: In the Finder Preferences window, you'll see several tabs across the top. Click on the "General" tab to access settings related to the default view and behavior of Finder windows. 4. **Adjust Window Settings**: Here, you can make changes to how Finder windows behave when you open them. You can choose the default view (List, Column, Grid, or Cover Flow) for new Finder windows, as well as the items that appear in the Sidebar. 5. **Check "Show All File Extensions"**: To ensure that all file extensions are visible, look for the checkbox labeled "Show all file extensions." If it's unchecked, click on it to enable this setting. This will help you identify files with hidden or incorrect extensions that might be causing the issue. 6. **Apply Changes and Test**: Once you've made the desired adjustments, click "OK" to save the changes. Close and reopen any Finder windows to see if the issue has been resolved. If the problem persists after following these steps, there might be other factors at play, and further troubleshooting may be required.

Step 1. Connect your Mac to another Mac in Target Disk Mode.

Step 2. Open "Finder" and go to "Preferences."

Step 3. Next, open the "Sidebar" tab.

Step 4. To display the Hard Disks and External Disks, check the corresponding box. Your Target Disk will appear in the Finder sidebar.

If that doesn't work, use Disk Utility and follow the steps below.

Step 1. Open "Disk Utility."

Step 2. In the sidebar, look for the Target Disk.

Step 3. If the disk is grayed out, click the "Mount" button after selecting it.

Now go back to the Finder and look for the Target disk again.

Solution 5: Disable Firmware Password to Resolve Target Disk Mode Issue

When the Mac firmware password is set to "ON," you cannot initiate Target Disk Mode during a cold boot. Therefore, it's recommended that you disable the firmware password.

Boot your Mac into macOS Recovery Mode and follow the steps below (refer to this link if your Mac won't start up in Recovery Mode):

Step 1. In the Menu Bar, click on "Utilities" and select "Startup Security Utility" or "Firmware Password Utility".

Step 2. Click on "Turn off Firmware Password."

Step 3. Enter the firmware password and quit the utility.

Step 4. Now "Restart" your Mac. Since you have successfully disabled the Firmware Password, you can now easily access Target Disk Mode.

We hope that the solutions presented in this article effectively address your Target Disk issues. However, if you unfortunately lost your Mac data or failed to back it up during this process, don't panic! We have a solution for you.

"Recovering Lost Files During the Resolution of Target Disk Mode Not Functioning"

We hope that the solutions presented in this article effectively resolve your Target Disk issues. However, if you have experienced data loss on your Mac or failed to create a backup during this process, do not panic! We have a solution for you. When updating and reformatting your Mac, there is a significant risk of permanently losing your data.

If you've experienced data loss due to a failed macOS upgrade, reformatting, system crash, or any other reason, you can recover your data with the assistance of the Data Recovery Wizard for Mac tool.

Data Recovery Wizard for Mac is an all-encompassing solution for any data loss scenario, capable of recovering files of any size or format. This robust tool assists in retrieving images, videos, audio files, documents, and more from Mac computers, SD cards, external hard drives, memory cards, and cameras without encountering difficulties. Even after emptied, it enables Mac Trash Recovery from your Mac's Trash Bin.

To retrieve your lost data, simply follow these steps:

Step 1. Choose the location to scan

Launch the Data Recovery Wizard for Mac and select the hard drive, SSD, SD card, USB flash drive, or TF card from which you lost data. Click "Search for lost files" to initiate the scanning process.

Note: Before proceeding with data recovery, it's recommended to click "Disk Backup" from the left sidebar to create a backup of your Mac to prevent any potential further data loss. Once the backup is done, the software can retrieve data from the backup, and your computer can then write new data again.

Step 2. Filter Lost Mac Data

The software will automatically scan for lost data on your MacBook/iMac. Once the scan is complete, filter the desired data using the "Type" and "Path" buttons.

Step 3. Recover Lost Data or Files

Double-click a file to preview it. Then, click the "Recover" button to restore the lost data to another location.

Summary: This is a request for translation into English.

Target Disk Mode is an excellent method for transferring data, but it can also become a source of frustration when it malfunctions. Fortunately, we have provided the best solutions in this article to assist you in promptly resolving Target Disk Mode issues.

When it comes to ensuring the safety of your data, we've previously introduced a professional and efficient data recovery tool called "tools Data Recovery Wizard for Mac" that can assist you in retrieving your lost files. So, what are you waiting for? Explore these fantastic solutions and resolve your Mac Target Disk Mode issues without compromising your precious Mac data.

"Target Disk Mode Not Working" FAQs

We hope this article has effectively addressed all your concerns regarding Target Disk Mode issues. However, if you still have any doubts or questions, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section below for clarification.

1. What can my Mac do in Target Disk Mode? In Target Disk Mode, your Mac essentially functions as an external hard drive, allowing other Macs to access its data directly. Here's what your Mac can do in this mode: 1. **Data Transfer:** You can use Target Disk Mode to transfer files between two Macs. Connect the two computers via FireWire, Thunderbolt, or USB cable, and then boot one of them into Target Disk Mode. The Mac in Target Disk Mode will appear as a disk on the desktop of the other Mac, enabling file transfers. 2. **Disk Utility Repair:** If your Mac is experiencing startup issues, you can use another Mac's Disk Utility to repair its disk while it's in Target Disk Mode. This can help diagnose and fix problems with the file system. 3. **Backup and Restore:** Target Disk Mode can facilitate backing up your Mac's data to another computer or an external drive. You can also restore a backup from another source to your Mac in this mode. 4. **OS Installation:** In some cases, you might be able to install an operating system on a target Mac from another Mac by connecting them in Target Disk Mode. 5. **Migration:** When setting up a new Mac, you can migrate user accounts, settings, and data from an old Mac in Target Disk Mode using macOS's Migration Assistant. Remember that your Mac won't boot up normally when in Target Disk Mode; it's solely for data access and related tasks. Always ensure you disconnect the cable safely after completing the operation to avoid data loss or damage.

When in Target Disk Mode, your Mac's drive functions as an external storage device. This allows you to easily access, partition, mount, and even format the Mac drive that has been booted into Target Disk Mode. On Intel-based Macs, you can transfer data via the Thunderbolt Bridge if the Migration Assistant fails to operate.

Furthermore, here's a compiled list of all the potential tasks that Target Disk Mode can effortlessly perform:

• For file transfer between two Macs.
• To boot a Mac using another Mac.
• To migrate your files to a new Mac from an older one.
• If your Mac is unbootable, you can use Target Disk Mode to run Mac First Aid and repair its disk.
• You can retrieve your files if your MacBook is not turning on.

2. How to recover data from a Mac with a broken screen using Target Disk Mode?

To recover data from a Mac with a broken screen, you'll need two Mac computers and a cable to connect them. Follow the steps outlined below: 1. Connect the two Macs: Use a Thunderbolt or USB-C cable to connect the broken Mac (source) to the functioning Mac (target). Make sure both devices are powered on. 2. Boot the broken Mac in Target Disk Mode: - For Macs with a functioning Touch ID button: Press and hold the Touch ID button along with the Power button until you see the Apple logo, then release both buttons. The screen may remain black, but keep holding until you hear the startup sound. - For older Macs without Touch ID: Restart the broken Mac while holding down the "T" key. This should put it into Target Disk Mode, indicated by a gray disk icon on the screen. 3. Access the broken Mac's drive on the functioning Mac: Open "Finder" on the good Mac, and you should see the broken Mac's drive appear under "Devices" on the left sidebar. 4. Recover your data: Navigate through the folders to locate the files you wish to recover. You can copy and paste or drag and drop the files onto the functioning Mac's desktop or another folder for safekeeping. 5. Transfer the files: Once you've copied all the necessary data, safely eject the broken Mac's drive from the "Finder" by right-clicking on its icon and selecting "Eject." 6. Seek professional help if needed: If you're unable to access the data or encounter issues during the process, consider consulting a professional data recovery service. Remember, these steps are temporary, and you should address the broken screen issue as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Connect the Mac with the broken screen to the other Mac. Shutdown your Mac with the broken screen. Turn on the other Mac and enter Target Disk Mode by pressing the "T" key. Click the disk icon on the new Mac to transfer data from the broken Mac to the new one.

We hope you have successfully transferred the data from your old Mac with the broken screen to your new one.

3. How do I fix Target Disk Mode on my Mac?

You can resolve Target Disk Mode on your Mac using these simple methods:

• Attempt to update or reformat your macOS
• Change the Finder preferences
• Ensure the cables and ports you're using are functioning properly
• Disable FileVault encryption to resolve Target Disk Mode issues
• Confirm that your Mac's Firewall password is disabled

4. Does Target Disk Mode work with USB on a Mac?

You can locate the Thunderbolt 3 port on your Mac, which has the same physical shape as the USB-C port. Furthermore, every Thunderbolt 3 port on your Mac functions similarly to a USB-C/USB port. This means it is safe to use a USB 3/USB device on your Mac while operating in Target Disk Mode.