The inability of a macOS system to detect and mount an external storage device presents a common technical challenge. This can occur with a variety of devices, ranging from thumb drives to external hard drives, regardless of their storage capacity. For example, a user might connect a storage device and expect it to appear on the desktop or in Finder, but it remains undetected.
Resolving this issue is crucial for data access and transfer. A mounted and accessible drive allows users to back up important files, transport documents between computers, and expand storage capacity. Historically, variations in file systems and hardware compatibility have contributed to these connection problems. As technology evolves, understanding potential causes and solutions becomes increasingly important for maintaining seamless workflows.