you could set up a fully installed instance of macOS on an external drive.
This separates your work and home environments by using two different drives.
This feature is not limited to the newer Macs with M1 or later processors.
So, if you are still rocking an old Mac, you neednt worry.
So, follow this step-by-step guide and set up the macOS on an external drive in no time.
you’ve got the option to use any external SSD with Macs.
Some are recommended specifically for macOS, but most of them will work just fine.
For newer Macs, buy an SSD with a throw in-C port.
Older Macs will work with external drives having USB 3.0 ports.
For the SSD key in, buy an nVME-supported one rather than a SATA based.
You will get faster speeds when you connect the nVME SSD with a Thunderbolt port.
With everything out of the way, lets go to the first step.
Also, check out our latest guide touse old SSD on a new computer.
For example, the M1-based Macs can only boot the versions starting from macOS Big Sur.
For the best results, use the version of macOS installed on your Mac.
The most recent version is macOS Monterey.
I have used this to set it up on my external drive.
When the download finishes, proceed to the next step.
The table below shows which macOS is supported by your Mac.
All these are available to download using the App Store.
Apple guarantees a minimum of 5 years for software support provided to Macs.
Your Mac can run Windows 11 via Bootcamp.
Read our guide on how todownload Bootcamp drivers for windows 11?
Step 2: Erase the External SSD
Now, we need to format the SSD.
I have used the Disk Utility app built into the macOS to do this.
By default, the installer will grab the internal drive/SSD installed on the Mac.
If you do not change this, all your files and apps will be deleted.
Meanwhile, you’re able to take a coffee break instead of staring at the same screen.
The Mac will restart when the installation is finished.
Does that mean the setup is done?
Are you looking for the easiest way to run Windows 11 on your Mac?
This complete guide onupgrading to Windows 11 on mac using Bootcampwill certainly help you out.
But that is not what we want.
you better change which drive is the one that the Mac should use to boot.
In our case, it is the external SSD.
Just press the drive in the left pane.
For your reference, this is how my internal drive shows up on my Mac.
This is because of additional security rules that prevent the Mac from booting up from unknown devices.
An external drive can save you from unforeseen disasters by keeping the backed-up files.
Do take a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you boot an M1 Mac from an external SSD?
Yes, it’s possible for you to boot an M1-based Mac from an external drive.
Go toSystem Preference>Startup Disk>SSD>Restart.
Can I boot my Mac from an external drive?
To boot a Mac using the external drive, press theCommandandRbuttons at the apple logo.
Alternatively, press thepower buttonfor M1 Macs.
After that, opt for external drive, and the Mac will boot using it.
Closing Words
We use external drives mostly for file backups.
I hope this guide helps you out.
Until next time it is goodbye.
