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Files don't save to desktop

Just yesterday, I began having problems saving to the desktop. I'm using Mojave 10.14.6. When saving a file to the desktop, do not get any error message but it does not appear on the desktop. When I try to save it again to the desktop, I receive a notice that it already exists on the desktop and do I want to replace (but I don't see the file on the desktop). If I restart the computer, I am able to save a file to the desktop (and see it) but I don't know how long this will last until the issue starts happening again. Files save properly everywhere else (in Documents, Downloads, specific folders, etc.). Any input? Thank you.

iMac 21.5", macOS 10.14

Posted on Jan 8, 2020 8:13 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 8, 2020 10:24 AM

Chris Rudell wrote:

restart the computer, I am able to save a file to the desktop (and see it) but I don't know how long this will last until the issue starts happening again. Files save properly everywhere else (in Documents, Downloads, specific folders, etc.).


Restarting is always the first recommend step to sort one off anomalies.


If it is not an on-going issue—then don't turn it into one.



If the issue returns you can always try a SafeBoot https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262

Takes noticeable longer to get to the login screen, does a 5-15 minute disk repair before it fully boots up, and certain system caches get cleared and rebuilt, including dynamic loader cache, etc. Login and test. Reboot as normal.

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 8, 2020 10:24 AM in response to Chris Rudell

Chris Rudell wrote:

restart the computer, I am able to save a file to the desktop (and see it) but I don't know how long this will last until the issue starts happening again. Files save properly everywhere else (in Documents, Downloads, specific folders, etc.).


Restarting is always the first recommend step to sort one off anomalies.


If it is not an on-going issue—then don't turn it into one.



If the issue returns you can always try a SafeBoot https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262

Takes noticeable longer to get to the login screen, does a 5-15 minute disk repair before it fully boots up, and certain system caches get cleared and rebuilt, including dynamic loader cache, etc. Login and test. Reboot as normal.

Files don't save to desktop

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