One popular example of this type of software is the open source software NTFS-3G. NTFS-3G’s developers also maintain a commercial, more stable, standalone application that enables NTFS writing.

FAT: Works natively with both Mac OS X and Windows computers, but is limited to a 4GB maximum file size. exFAT: Works natively with newer versions of Mac OS X (10. 6. 5+) and Windows (Vista+). Can work with large file sizes. This is the best option for cross-platform compatibility. [1] X Research source Mac OS Extended: Works only with Mac OS. Completely incompatible with Windows computers. This is the best option if you intend to use your external hard drive exclusively with computers running Mac OS. NTFS (Windows NT Filesystem): Works natively with Windows, Mac OS write-capability can be added using the steps in the previous Method. This is the best option if you intent to use your external hard drive exclusively with computers running Windows.