can't initialize a new hard disk in EX FAT format

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can't initialize a new hard disk in EX FAT format

Hi

I got a new hard disk. At the beginning I've used it as a Time Machine disk. Now I need it for some different use

I've tried to initialize it in Ex FAT format, using control + click on the icon, initialize, but I get this reply:

The calling process or user lacks the proper privileges to perform this operation

I checked folder privileges, they are all "reading and writing".

BUT if I try to format the disk using Utility Disk, I can initialize only in APFS format.

I really need to use the disk on a window pc as well.

Is there any solution?

Thank you

Posted on Feb 11, 2025 11:28 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

D.I. Johnson

Level 7

32,201 points

Feb 11, 2025 12:23 PM in response to rosannafromlatina

First - make sure that in Disk Utility you select View > Show All Devices.

Second - delete any APFS volumes that remain on the drive, indented below any Container on that drive. Select the APFS volume then click the delete button (–) in the toolbar.

Finally – Erase the drive device itself. Select the drive device in the sidebar, then click Erase. Select the Partition scheme first, then you can select from all the format options, including ExFAT and FAT32.

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Answer 2

samtenor

Level 4

2,074 points

Feb 11, 2025 12:24 PM in response to rosannafromlatina

Go to "Applications" --> "Utilities" --> "Dick Utility"

After you click on "Dick Utility" --> on the TOP menu, select "View" and choose "Show All Devices"

Now you can "Erase" the drive from the root, and choose the format of your preference.

Best

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can't initialize a new hard disk in EX FAT format

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