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User profile for user: somo_
somo_ Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Encrypting external HDD

I started encrypting an external HDD with my MacBook Air by "right-clicking" the HDD icon, and then clicking encrypt. (Not by using Disk Utility and erasing the data)

The problem is, I can't find a way to see how much of the encryption process has been completed. It is a 1TB HDD, and I have seen it can take days to encrypt, and that you can disconnect it from your computer and it will start encrypting when you plug it back in, but I would like to have an idea of how long it is going to take.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 12.6

Posted on Sep 20, 2022 2:30 PM

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User profile for user: roflcopter2013
roflcopter2013
User level: Level 2
222 points

Sep 20, 2022 2:37 PM in response to somo_

Encryption with Apple drives is usually handled as CoreStorage volumes (Unless we're talking T2 Chip M1 or M2 Chip on-board encryption)


Meaning, using this terminal command might list if the encryption is in progress or not finished yet in the CoreStorage Volume Details:


diskutil cs list


(for the nervous types) the above Command Translates to:


Use/Command Disk Utility → Target all detected CoreStorage volumes → List Details of all Core Storage volumes


At least you'll have more information than you started with.

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Encrypting external HDD

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