Frequently asked questions

For help setting up and using your Seagate hard drive, review the frequently asked questions below. For additional support resources, go to Seagate customer support.

Q: What is the hard drive format for the Backup Plus Desktop?
A: The default hard drive format for Backup Plus Desktop is NTFS, native to Windows.

Q: Can I use my Seagate hard drive without backup software?
A: Yes, the hard drive does not require any special software to work. The hard drive can be used as additional storage space to compliment your computer's hard drive. For example, copy videos, photos, music and documents and then paste them to the Seagate hard drive.

Q: Can I use the Backup Plus Desktop with a Mac?
A: Yes. However, since it is formatted as NTFS, the Backup Plus Desktop appears as read-only on a Mac. If you want to share files between Windows PCs and Macs, install the Paragon driver for Mac on your Mac. It allows Macs to write files to hard drives formatted as NTFS.

tIf you only want to use Backup Plus Desktop with Macs, you can format it as Mac OS Extended (Journaled). See Optional Formatting and Partitioning for instructions.

Q: Will my Seagate hard drive's USB 3.0 port work with my computer's USB 2.0 port?
A: Yes, the cable end that plugs into the computer (USB Type A) is compatible with both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0. However, the transfer rates are much slower with USB 2.0.

Q: Can I use my Seagate hard drive with a USB hub?
A: Yes, the hard drive can be connected to a USB hub. If you use a hub and encounter detection problems, slower than normal transfer rates, random disconnection from your computer or other unusual issues, try connecting the hard drive directly to the computer's USB port.

Some USB hubs are less than efficient with power management, which can be problematic for connected devices. In such a case, consider trying a powered USB hub that includes a power cable.

Please note that USB 2.0 hubs limit your Seagate hard drive's transfer rates to USB 2.0 speeds.

Q: Can I use my Seagate hard drive with a longer cable?
A: Yes, provided it is certified according to USB standards. However, Seagate recommends using the cable shipped with your hard drive for the best results. If you use a longer cable and experience problems with detection, transfer rates or disconnection, use the original cable included with your Seagate hard drive.

Q: Can I protect my Seagate hard drive with a password?
A: Yes, it is possible to protect the hard drive or individual folders and files with a password. There are many third-party solutions for password protection. However, Seagate cannot guarantee them since we do not test third-party applications.

Some versions of Windows have a built-in utility called Bitlocker that can protect hard drives with a password. For more information about Bitlocker, consult Microsoft's support documentation.

Q: Can I encrypt my Seagate hard drive?
A: Yes, the hard drive can be encrypted. There are many third-party solutions for encryption. However, Seagate cannot guarantee them since we do not test third-party applications.

Some versions of Windows have a built-in utility called Bitlocker that can encrypt hard drives. For more information about Bitlocker, consult Microsoft's support documentation