New computer cannot read MY PASSPORT 25E1 created on old computer

When your new computer cannot read a WD My Passport 25E1 external hard drive that was used on an old computer, it usually means there's a problem with the file system, compatibility, or even potential hardware issues. This is a fairly common problem, especially when switching between different operating systems (e.g., Windows to macOS), or from an older version of Windows to a newer one. Below is a detailed explanation (approx. 500 words) of why this happens and how you can fix it.

Understanding the Issue

The WD My Passport 25E1 is a USB-powered external hard drive commonly formatted in NTFS (for Windows) or exFAT (for Windows and Mac). If your new computer can't read it, one of the following is likely true:

File System Incompatibility – The drive may be formatted in NTFS, which is not fully supported by macOS (read-only), or in another unsupported file system like Ext4 (Linux).

Corrupt Partition or File System – Improper ejection or physical shock may have corrupted the file system.

Drive Not Mounting Automatically – The operating system detects the drive but doesn’t mount it.

Hardware Compatibility Issues – There could be an issue with the USB cable, port, or the drive itself.

Encryption Software – WD drives sometimes include built-in encryption or password protection, which must be accessed using WD software installed on the computer.

Step-by-Step Fixes

1. Test with Disk Management or Disk Utility

On Windows: Right-click Start > Disk Management.

On macOS: Open Disk Utility from Applications > Utilities.

Check if the drive appears:

If the partition is there but doesn’t have a drive letter, assign one manually.

If the drive shows as RAW or Unallocated, the file system is unreadable or missing.

2. Try on the Old Computer

If possible, plug the drive back into the old computer:

Confirm the data is accessible.

Copy important files to another location in case recovery is needed.

Safely eject the drive and try again on the new system.

3. Update Drivers or WD Utilities

Go to WD's support site and download:

WD Discovery Software

WD Security or WD Drive Utilities

Latest firmware (if available)

Install these on the new computer to unlock or recognize the drive, especially if encryption or password protection was enabled.

4. Use Data Recovery Software (If Needed)

If the drive is visible but unreadable, recovery software can help:

Windows: Recuva, EaseUS, or Disk Drill

Mac: Stellar Data Recovery, Disk Drill, or TestDisk (free)

These tools can often recover files from corrupted or unrecognized drives.

5. Reformat the Drive (if Data is Backed Up)

If the data is already backed up or no longer needed, reformat the drive:

Windows: Right-click the drive in File Explorer > Format > Choose exFAT or NTFS.

Mac: Use Disk Utility > Erase > Format as exFAT (if using across systems) or APFS/Mac OS Extended (Journaled) for Mac-only use.

Tips to Avoid Future Issues

Always eject the drive safely before unplugging.

Use exFAT if you switch between Mac and Windows often.

Regularly back up your drive to avoid permanent data loss.

If encryption is enabled, ensure you have the password and WD software installed.

If you can provide your new computer's operating system (Windows or Mac), and the format of the drive (if known), I can tailor a more specific solution.