Can't copy anything to my hard drive

I'm trying to drag folders off my desktop and add them to my hard drive but it won't let me. I am the only user on my lap top and I am listed as the administrator in the users and groups but when I look at the hard drive it says I am 'read only'. Any attempt to change this and I get - "The operation can’t be completed because you don’t have the necessary permission'. Also, when I look at the hard drive it lists 'system' (not my name) as read/write but when I look at the files on my desk top it lists my name as read/write. I also a not allowed to create a new folder inside the hard drive. Any suggestions .... ?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 14.1

Posted on Apr 23, 2024 1:10 AM

Reply
4 replies
Sort By: 

Apr 23, 2024 6:57 AM in response to Wombatgb55

MacOS is inherently a multiple-User system, even if you choose to create only one user account. As you have observed, only System has access to Top-level on the drive.


Users files must be stored in user directories. These are under the /Users directory, stored by UserShortName.


Reply

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Can't copy anything to my hard drive

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