In 2017, Apple introduced APFS (Apple File System), a default file system for macOS. APFS has several advantages over the previous HFS+ file system, including improved performance, scalability, and security. However, some users still need to use the earlier file system format, Mac OS Extended Journaled.
There are several reasons why someone might want to switch back to the earlier format, such as needing to access files on an older operating system, or needing compatibility with certain software or hardware. In this blog post, we will discuss how to change APFS to Mac OS Extended Journaled.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before you proceed with changing your file system format, make sure to backup all your data. You will need a hard drive or USB flash drive to perform the reformatting and backup.
You will also need access to a Mac running macOS High Sierra or later. This process cannot be done on Windows or older versions of macOS.
What requires your attention is…?
Switching file systems will erase all data on the selected drive, so make sure to back up all data beforehand. This process cannot be undone, so think before you switch.
Also, make sure to check if any of your software or hardware is not compatible with Mac OS Extended Journaled before proceeding with the switch.
Method 1: Disk Utility
Disk Utility is a built-in tool for macOS that allows users to manage disks and volumes. This method involves using Disk Utility to reformat your drive to Mac OS Extended Journaled.
1. Open Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility).
2. Select the disk you want to reformat in the left column.
3. Click on the Erase button at the top of the Disk Utility window.
4. Choose Mac OS Extended (Journaled) from the dropdown menu.
5. Assign a name to your disk in the Name field.
6. Click on the Erase button.
7. Confirm that you want to erase the disk and reformat it to Mac OS Extended Journaled.
Pros:
– This method is simple and quick.
– Disk Utility is a built-in tool and does not require any additional software.
Cons:
– This method will erase all data on the selected drive.
– This method cannot be undone.
Method 2: Terminal
Terminal is a command-line interface for macOS that allows users to perform various tasks and operations. This method involves using Terminal to reformat your drive to Mac OS Extended Journaled.
1. Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities > Terminal).
2. Type in the following command: diskutil list
3. Find the name of the disk you want to reformat in the list.
4. Type in the following command: diskutil eraseDisk JHFS+ Name diskX
(Note: replace "Name" with the desired name for your disk, and "diskX" with the disk identifier found in step 3.)
5. Press Enter and confirm that you want to erase the disk and reformat it to Mac OS Extended Journaled.
Pros:
– This method allows for more customization and control over the formatting process.
– Terminal is a built-in tool and does not require any additional software.
Cons:
– This method requires knowledge of command-line interface and may be intimidating for some users.
– A mistake in the command can lead to unintended consequences.
Method 3: Third-party software
There are several third-party software options for reformatting your drive to Mac OS Extended Journaled. One such option is iPartition, which is a paid software with a user-friendly interface.
1. Download and install iPartition on your Mac.
2. Open iPartition and select the disk you want to reformat.
3. Choose "Reformat…" from the Partition menu.
4. Select Mac OS Extended (Journaled) from the Format dropdown menu.
5. Assign a name to your disk in the Name field.
6. Click on the Reformat button.
7. Confirm that you want to reformat the disk.
Pros:
– Third-party software can offer more features and customization options.
– Some third-party software may have a more user-friendly interface.
Cons:
– Third-party software may require a purchase.
– Third-party software may not be as reliable as built-in tools.
Why Can’t I Change APFS to Mac OS Extended Journaled?
1. Your disk may be encrypted with FileVault. You will need to decrypt the disk before switching file systems.
Fix: Turn off FileVault in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault.
2. Your macOS may not be compatible with Mac OS Extended Journaled.
Fix: Check your macOS version and compatibility with the desired file system format.
3. Your disk may be used as a startup disk.
Fix: You cannot change the file system format of a startup disk.
Implications and Recommendations
Switching file systems will erase all data on the selected drive, so make sure to back up all data beforehand. This process cannot be undone, so think before you switch.
Mac OS Extended Journaled may not offer all the advantages of APFS, such as improved performance and security. Consider the pros and cons of each file system format before making the switch.
FAQs
Q: Can I switch back to APFS after changing to Mac OS Extended Journaled?
A: Yes, but be aware that this process will erase all data on the selected drive.
Q: Will changing the file system format improve performance?
A: It depends on your specific use case. Mac OS Extended Journaled may not offer all the advantages of APFS, such as improved performance and scalability.
Q: Can I use Time Machine with Mac OS Extended Journaled?
A: Yes, Time Machine is compatible with both APFS and Mac OS Extended Journaled.
Q: Can I change the file system format of a disk with multiple partitions?
A: Yes, but each partition will need to be formatted individually.
Conclusion
Switching from APFS to Mac OS Extended Journaled can be useful for certain users who need compatibility with older operating systems or software. However, it is important to backup all data beforehand and consider the pros and cons of each file system format. Disk Utility and Terminal are both built-in tools that can be used to reformat a disk, or third-party software can be used for added customization options. Don’t forget to check for any compatibility issues before proceeding with the switch.