You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Disk Utility doesnt see an external disk on my network

I am trying to reformat the external disk I am using for backup on Time Machine, but Disk Utility doesnt see it. It shows up in Finder as a shared disk. I am using OSX 10.11.6. Thanks.

MacBook Pro (15-inch Mid 2010), OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.5), Install.app

Posted on Oct 1, 2016 8:35 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 1, 2016 8:57 AM

The Disk Utility isn't supposed to see network drives.


If it's an USB drive, connect it to your computer.

If it's an Ethernet or wireless drive, use a utility specifically designed for it.


(145027)

4 replies

Oct 1, 2016 8:57 AM in response to mgmoogk

Disk Utility cannot be used on a "shared" or "network" drive.


To reformat the drive, you will need to first connect it directly to your Mac using USB, FireWire or Thunderbolt connection. Then, Disk Utility will be able to "see" the drive so that you can reformat it.


Once that is done, you can connect the drive back at its original location.

Disk Utility doesnt see an external disk on my network

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.