How to Mount and Read EXT4 Partition in Mac

This guide will walk you through the steps of how to mount and access EXT4 partitions in Mac, offering solutions for both read-only access and full read/write capabilities.

Many of you might have run into this before. Macs and Linux computers don't always get along regarding files! Since macOS doesn't natively support EXT4, specialized tools are required.

I stared at my Mac in frustration. My important files were trapped in my external hard drive, and my Mac wouldn't recognize it! Ugh! I fiddled endlessly, but nothing worked. "How do I mount and access EXT4 partitions in Mac?" I desperately searched online. I was about to pull my hair out! Do I need special software?

EaseUS will delve into how to mount and access EXT4 partitions in Mac. We'll cover methods ranging from open-source solutions to third-party software, empowering you to choose the right approach for your needs.

1. Method 1. Use Virtual Machine to Access EXT4 on Mac
2. Method 2: Add EXT4 Support to macOS
3. Method 3. Read Or Write Ext4 On Mac With Paragon's ExtFS
4. Bonus Tip: How to Format Partitions on macOS

Method 1. Use Virtual Machine to Access EXT4 on Mac 

Think of a VM as a "system within your computer." It lets you run a different operating system, like Linux, in a window on your Mac. Since Linux natively understands EXT4, this gives you full access to your files.

• Read and Write Access: A Linux VM lets you read and safely modify files on your EXT4 drive.
• No Extra Software on your Mac: Keeps your Mac system clean.

Step 1: You are required to choose a VM software. Several popular options include VirtualBox (free) and Parallels Desktop.

Step 2: Once you have the VM software, Install Linux. Explore the internet to download a Linux distribution on the VM. The VM software will guide you in accessing the files you need.

Step 3: Now, mount the EXT4 drive on your Mac. Your VM will automatically recognize and let you access the drive.

We will continue to provide more information about the EXT4 partition on Mac. Click the social buttons if you think it is useful.

Method 2: Add EXT4 Support to macOS 

This method allows your Mac to understand and work with EXT4 drives directly. It's a great choice if you regularly interact with EXT4 formatted storage, offering seamless access and file transfer. Let's learn how to mount and access an Ext4 partition on a Mac by adding EXT4 support to MacOS.

Note* MacFuse is a translator between your Mac and different file systems. 

Step 1: Download and install macFUSE. Follow the link: official website.

Step 2: It will take you to the installer window. Click on the install macFUSE, and it will start downloading the macFUSE. Follow the on-screen instructions. 

Step 3: Before the installation is completed, you will get a message saying the software was blocked from loading. In the new window, click on the Allow button.

Step 4: If you see a message about the software being blocked during installation. It's a normal security notification; just click 'Allow' to keep things moving.

Step 5: Homebrew makes installing ext4fuse easier! If you need Homebrew on your Mac, check their website for instructions. 

Step 6: Once it's set up, go to your Terminal app and run this command:

brew install ext4fuse

Step 7: Now, run the following command to expand the list of connected drives on your Mac.

diskutil list

Look for your EXT4 drive in the list; its ID will look like /dev/disk2r3. 

Step 8: Let's assume the disk ID is /dev/disk2r3. 

Step 9: Use this command to mount your drive on Mac. Don't forget to replace the ID with yours):

sudo ext4fuse /dev/disk2r3 ~/tmp/MY_DISK_PARTITION -o allow_other

Step 10: Go to the Mac Finder and check if you can see your drive. 

Pro Tip: Although this method is convenient, ext4fuse on macOS is primarily read-only. Experimental write support exists but proceed cautiously as there is a risk of data corruption. Also, macOS updates can sometimes cause compatibility issues, so be aware.

Method 3. Read Or Write Ext4 On Mac With Paragon's ExtFS 

Paragon ExtFS for Mac is a commercial software solution that provides easy read and write access to EXT2/3/4 partitions on your Mac. This option is ideal if you need reliable writing support for EXT4 drives and prefer a user-friendly interface to working with a Terminal. 

Step 1: Visit Paragon's website (https://www.paragon-software.com/home/extfs-mac/ ) to purchase and download ExtFS for Mac.

Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. 

Step 3: Connect your EXT4 drive: your Mac will automatically recognize and mount it. 

Step 4: Launch Paragon ExtFS for Mac from your Applications folder. Your EXT4 drive will appear within the software's interface, allowing you to read, write, modify, and manage files as needed.

Your EXT4 drive will appear in Finder like any other drive. You can now read, write, and modify files directly.

Bonus Tip: How to Format Partitions on macOS

Sometimes, the best way to start fresh with a drive is to set it up. Remember, MacOS doesn't play nicely in EXT4 by default. Formatting is usually the first step to using an unsupported drive on your Mac. But what do you do? Fortunately, there is a tool that makes this process incredibly easy - EaseUS NTFS for Mac.

Why EaseUS NTFS for Mac is the Best Choice

EaseUS NTFS for Mac doesn't just read and write to other file systems. It's also a fantastic tool when you need to format drives specifically for use on your Mac. Here's why it shines:

• Simple interface: no complicated commands, just a few clicks to format your drive. 
• Multiple Filesystem Support: Handles standard Mac formats (HFS+, APFS) and others like NTFS (for Windows compatibility). 
• Safe and reliable: Formatting can be nerve-wracking, but EaseUS puts your mind at ease with safe, proven procedures, and you can even force-erase disks. 
• Beyond formatting: It also enables reading and writing on NTFS drives, a common format on Windows machines. 

Note* Formatting the drive erases all existing data. Always back up anything important before starting! While Disk Utility (built into macOS) can format drives, EaseUS NTFS for Mac provides a smoother experience, especially when working with different file systems. 

If you expect to format drives frequently or work with Mac computers, EaseUS NTFS for Mac makes the whole process a breeze.

Conclusion  

Although your Mac may not natively speak EXT4, many ways exist to bridge this gap. Whether you prefer free command-line tools, the convenience of a virtual machine, or a dedicated software solution, you can now access those EXT4 drives. Remember, if you encounter other file system problems with hard drives on your Mac, EaseUS NTFS for Mac can be a lifesaver. It makes formatting drives and working with different file systems a breeze!

FAQs About How to Mount and Access EXT4 Partitions in Mac

Have more questions about working with EXT4 drives on your Mac? Let's dive into some common ones. 

1. Is EXT4 compatible with Windows and Mac? 

EXT4 is mostly used in a Linux file system. Windows or Mac cannot read EXT4 drives. You will need additional tools or software to access EXT4 partitions on the operating systems. 

2. How do I mount a partition on a Mac?

Mac provides a built-in tool called Disk Utility to fix disk-related problems. To mount a partition using Disk Utility, follow these steps: Open Disk Utility: Go to Finder -> Applications -> Utilities -> Disk Utility. Locate the drive you want to access and click "Mount."

3. How to read an EXT4 partition?

Methods such as ext4fuse or FUSE for macOS with a virtual machine are the most common for read-only access. 

• FUSE and ext4fuse: This requires some terminal use but is free. 
• Virtual Machine: Great for infrequent use; no extra software on your Mac.