If you're looking to back up a single file or a few files on a Mac, simply copying and pasting them to another location is a straightforward task. Similarly, relocating one or more files from one directory to another within your hard disk is equally uncomplicated. Nonetheless, issues such as error code -50 might arise when attempting to copy or move files on a Mac.

Error Code -50 on Mac

Typically, copying or moving a file on your computer shouldn't pose any significant challenges, whether you're using Windows or Mac. However, numerous users report encountering errors during this process, including error code -43 Mac, error code -36 Mac, and error code -50 Mac. This article primarily focuses on explaining error code -50 and offering some solutions to resolve it.

The simplest method to copy a file on Mac:

Select the desired file -> press Command C to copy it -> navigate to the destination location -> press Command V to paste it.

The simplest method to move a file on Mac:

Select the desired file -> press Command X -> go to the destination location -> press Command V.

Caution!

• If you intend to move a file on your Mac, it's advisable to copy and paste it first, then remove the original file if it's no longer needed. Why? Files may be lost during the cut and paste process.
• Should your critical files have already been deleted from your Mac, don't panic. Use the recovery tool provided by MiniTool to retrieve them promptly.

Understanding Mac Error Code 50

When you attempt to copy or move files on Mac, the following message may pop up:

The operation can't be completed due to an unexpected error (error code -50).

Based on user feedback, this error often occurs when trying to move or copy files stored on a removable drive (such as an external HDD or USB drive). Users must click the OK button to dismiss the window.

How to Fix It When Windows 10 Can't Copy or Move Files?

What's causing this issue? Here are the top five reasons for this Mac OS error code when copying or moving files.

• Glitched temporary file: Error code 50 Mac can occur if a temporary file becomes disorganized.
• Damaged NVRAM/PRAM data: Corrupt NVRAM/PRAM data can lead to this error.
• Corrupted drive: You won't be able to copy or move files if the drive or its contents are corrupted.
• File metadata error: If the file name or type metadata conflicts with what Find expects, error 50 will display.
• Incorrect file system: You cannot copy or move files to an external drive formatted as NTFS.

How to Resolve Mac/MacBook Error Code -50

The following methods are highly effective for fixing error code -50 on Mac.

Method #1: Restart Mac

The simplest way to address the error when it arises due to a temporary file being stuck is restarting your Mac. A restart clears the temp folder, thereby resolving the issue.

1. Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner.
2. Select Restart and wait.

However, if the issue persists due to a persistent temp file glitch, restarting alone won't suffice. In such cases, perform a power cycle procedure.

1. Disconnect all external devices connected to your Mac.
2. Click the Apple icon at the top left.
3. Select Shut Down.
4. Wait for the shutdown process to finish.
5. Unplug the power cable and wait at least 30 seconds.
6. Reconnect the power cable.
7. Restart your Mac.

What if Your Mac Keeps Restarting?

Method #2: Reset NVRAM/PRAM

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Restart it and press Option Command R P keys immediately.
3. Hold these four keys for at least 20 seconds.
4. Pay attention to the startup sounds. Release the keys when you hear the second sound.
5. If your Mac has a T2 Security chip, release the keys after the Apple logo disappears for the second time.

Method #3: Run First Aid

1. Open Finder.
2. Select Applications in the left pane.
3. Click Utilities in the right pane.
4. Select Disk Utility.
5. Choose your problematic drive in the left pane.
6. Click on the First Aid button at the top.
7. Click on the Run button to confirm and wait.
8. Repeat this process to repair other drives on Mac.

Method #4: Rename File

1. Open Finder.
2. Locate the file triggering the Mac Error Code -50.
3. Right-click on the file.
4. Select Rename.
5. Assign it a new name and change its extension (.txt is recommended).

Method #5: Format to FAT 32

1. Open Finder -> click Applications -> select Utilities.
2. Click Partition at the top.
3. Select the target partition under Volume Information.
4. Click Format.
5. Choose MS-DOS (FAT).
6. Tap Apply and wait.

Another approach to prevent error code 50 Mac is copying and moving files using the Mac Terminal.

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