To grant a Mac app Full Disk Access, open Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access, select Add, choose the app, and click Open. Before you approve it, verify the exact app and publisher, where you got it, and whether its documented task genuinely needs broad access. This permission reaches well beyond one folder, so use the narrower Files & Folders controls when they are enough.
What Full Disk Access allows
Apple describes Full Disk Access as permission that can cover files used by other apps, including data from Mail, Messages, Safari, and Home; Time Machine backup data; and certain administrative settings for every user on the Mac. Treat it as a broad grant, not a routine fix for an app that simply needs one document or folder.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Apple’s Privacy & Security settings guide explains the scope of the permission. The setting itself cannot tell you whether a third-party app is trustworthy; that assessment depends on the specific app and its publisher.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Decide whether the app needs broad access
First compare the app’s stated reason for requesting access with the work you expect it to do. A task involving files across the Mac may call for broader access; a task limited to a particular location may not.
#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
| Permission | Scope | When to consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Files & Folders | Controls access to listed locations such as Desktop, Downloads, and Documents. | Consider this when the app only needs a specific folder or location. |
| Full Disk Access | Broader access that can include files used by other apps, Time Machine backup data, and certain administrative settings for all users. | Consider only when the app’s documented function reasonably requires access beyond particular folders. |
Apple lists Files & Folders separately from Full Disk Access in its guide to controlling access to files and folders. If a folder-specific allowance meets the need, prefer that narrower option.
Check the app before approving
- Confirm the identity. Make sure the app is the one you meant to install and that you recognize its publisher.
- Check its origin. Consider whether you obtained it from a source you trust. The permission panel itself does not verify an app’s trustworthiness.
- Understand the stated need. Compare the app’s explanation with its documented function and consider whether Files & Folders access is sufficient.
- Pause if the request does not make sense. Do not grant broad access merely because an app asks for it or because you are troubleshooting a task that only involves one folder.
Grant Full Disk Access in macOS
- Open the Apple menu and choose System Settings.
- Select Privacy & Security, then Full Disk Access.
- Select Add, choose the intended app, and click Open.
- Check the Full Disk Access list to confirm that the intended app is the one with access enabled.
Apple’s current settings instructions are in Change Privacy & Security settings on Mac. If the labels on your Mac differ, use the path for your installed macOS version.
Rank #2
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Turn off access when it is no longer needed
Return to Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access and switch off the app’s access. Review the list periodically, especially when an app is no longer part of your workflow. Apple describes these privacy controls in its Mac Privacy & Security settings guide.
Find the setting on older macOS versions
Apple documents different settings paths by release:
Rank #3
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
- macOS 13 or later: System Settings > Privacy & Security > Privacy.
- macOS 12 or earlier: System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy.
These version-specific paths come from Apple’s Controlling app access to files in macOS documentation, published February 18, 2021. Labels can vary across releases, so follow the controls shown on your installed version.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Plug-and-play expandability
- SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps)
Rank #4
- Ultra fast data transfers: the external hard drive works with USB 3.0 thickened copper cable to provide super fast transfer speeds. Theoretical read speed is as high as 110MB/s-133MB/s and write speed is as high as 103MB/s.
- Ultra-thin and quiet: the motherboard adopts a noise-free solution, giving you a quiet working environment. Lightweight and portable size designed to fit in your pocket for easy portability.
- Compatibility: compatible with PS4/xbox one/Windows/Linux/Mac/Android,Stable and fast downloading on game console no difference from fast transmission when using on PC.
- Plug and Play: no software to install, just plug it in and the drive is ready to use. The hard drive chip is wrapped with aluminum anti-interference layer to increase heat dissipation and protect data
- Package Contents: 1* portable hard drive, 1 *USB 3.0 cable, 1*USB to type C adapter，1 *user manual, shell packaging, three-year manufacturer's warranty and free technical support services
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
