How to Target Disk Mode on Mac: Your Ultimate Guide to Mac-to-Mac Data Transfer and Beyond

Picture this: Sarah’s beloved MacBook Pro, a trusty companion for years, suddenly decided to call it quits. One morning, it just wouldn’t boot up past the Apple logo, stuck in a frustrating loop. Panic set in – years of family photos, important work documents, and cherished memories, all trapped on an unresponsive machine. My heart truly went out to her when she called, utterly distraught. In situations like these, when you’re staring down the barrel of a seemingly dead Mac, there’s often a powerful, yet sometimes overlooked, lifeline: Target Disk Mode.

To quickly and precisely answer the question of how to target disk mode on Mac: You simply connect two Macs with a compatible Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire cable, then power on the “target” Mac (the one you want to access) while holding down the T key. It will then appear as an external drive on the “host” Mac, allowing you to easily access its internal storage. It’s a wonderfully elegant solution that can save your bacon when all seems lost, or simply make data migration a breeze.

From my own years tinkering with Apple hardware, Target Disk Mode isn’t just a nifty trick; it’s an indispensable tool in any Mac user’s arsenal. Whether you’re a seasoned pro trying to troubleshoot a client’s machine or a home user just needing to rescue precious files, understanding this feature is crucial. Let’s dive deep into what it is, when to use it, and how to master it.

What Exactly is Target Disk Mode?

At its core, Target Disk Mode (often abbreviated as TDM) is a unique boot mode for Apple Macs that transforms your computer into a high-speed external hard drive. Instead of booting its own operating system, the Mac in Target Disk Mode acts as a storage device, making its internal drive accessible to another Mac, which we’ll call the “host” Mac. Think of it this way: your Mac, usually a complex computer with its own brain and personality, suddenly becomes a humble USB stick, ready to serve its data to another machine.

This isn’t just some clever software trick; it’s a fundamental aspect of the Mac’s hardware design. When engaged, the Mac’s internal storage controller essentially bypasses the macOS boot process and presents itself directly over a high-speed data interface like Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire. This direct connection is what makes it so fast and reliable for moving large amounts of data, often significantly faster than network transfers or even some dedicated external enclosures.

For folks like Sarah, whose Mac wouldn’t boot, Target Disk Mode becomes a crucial bridge. It allows her to bypass the malfunctioning operating system and directly access the underlying drive where all her data resides. This distinction is vital because a software issue (like a corrupted macOS installation) doesn’t necessarily mean the hard drive itself is dead, and TDM is designed to exploit that fact.

The Power of TDM: When Should You Use It?

The applications for Target Disk Mode are surprisingly varied, going beyond just recovering data from a non-booting Mac. Here are some of the most common and powerful scenarios where TDM truly shines:

1. Effortless Data Migration to a New Mac:

   You just got a shiny new MacBook Air! Congrats! Now, how do you get all your stuff from your old Mac onto the new one without breaking a sweat? While Migration Assistant over Wi-Fi works, a direct connection via Target Disk Mode is often the fastest and most reliable method, especially for large volumes of data. Just put your old Mac into TDM, connect it to your new Mac, and let Migration Assistant do its magic, treating your old Mac’s drive like any other external source.

2. Lifesaving Data Recovery from an Unbootable Mac:

   This is where TDM truly earns its hero status, just like in Sarah’s situation. If your Mac is stuck on a boot loop, showing a question mark folder, or simply won’t start up, TDM allows you to bypass the problematic macOS installation and access your files. You can then copy all your precious documents, photos, and videos to a safe location on the host Mac or another external drive. It’s often the first step in a data recovery effort before considering more drastic measures.

3. Troubleshooting and Repairing Another Mac:

   As someone who’s spent countless hours troubleshooting Macs, I can tell you TDM is a godsend. If a client’s Mac is acting up, but you suspect it’s a software issue or a failing internal drive, you can put it into TDM and connect it to your own working Mac. From there, you can:

   • Run Disk Utility on the problematic drive to check for errors and repair it.
   • Install a fresh copy of macOS onto the target Mac’s drive, essentially treating it as an external volume for installation.
   • Run diagnostic tools from your host Mac directly on the target drive to pinpoint issues.
4. Accessing Files When Your Main OS is Corrupted or Inaccessible:

   Sometimes, your primary macOS installation might be damaged, but you have a second partition or an external bootable drive. If you can’t boot into your main OS, putting the Mac into TDM allows another Mac to access its drives directly, helping you retrieve files that might otherwise be trapped.

5. Using an Old Mac as a High-Speed External Drive:

   Got an old Mac mini or iMac gathering dust? If its internal drive is still good, you can repurpose it as a giant, fast external hard drive for another Mac via Target Disk Mode. It’s a great way to squeeze extra life out of aging hardware, perfect for backups or holding large media libraries.

My advice? Don’t wait until disaster strikes to familiarize yourself with Target Disk Mode. Knowing how to use it can genuinely save you from immense frustration and potential data loss.

Prerequisites for Entering Target Disk Mode

Before you jump into Target Disk Mode, you’ll need a few things in place. Skipping these steps can lead to frustration, so let’s make sure you’re all set:

• Two Macs: You’ll need the “target” Mac (the one whose drive you want to access) and a “host” Mac (the one you’ll use to access the target’s drive). Both need to be functional enough to either boot into TDM or boot normally.
• A Compatible High-Speed Cable: This is arguably the most critical component. The type of cable you need depends on the ports available on both your Macs. We’re talking Thunderbolt (USB-C), Thunderbolt 1/2 (Mini DisplayPort), or FireWire. USB-A to USB-C or standard USB-A to USB-A cables generally won’t work for TDM.
• Power for Both Macs: Ensure both Macs are either plugged into an electrical outlet or have sufficient battery life. You don’t want either machine dying in the middle of a data transfer!
• Admin Access (on the host Mac): While not strictly necessary to *enter* TDM, you’ll need administrative privileges on the host Mac to fully access and manage files on the target Mac’s drive, especially if file permissions are involved.
• Patience: Depending on the size of the drive and the amount of data, transfers can take a while. Grab a coffee!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Enter Target Disk Mode

The process is quite straightforward, but there are two main ways to initiate Target Disk Mode, depending on whether your target Mac is already running or shut down.

Method 1: From a Booted Mac (When Your Mac is Working)

This method is ideal for planned data migrations or when you want to use an old Mac as an external drive.

1. Connect the Macs: Using the correct cable (Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire), connect the two Macs. Ensure the connection is secure on both ends.
2. Open System Settings/Preferences on the Target Mac: On the Mac you want to put into Target Disk Mode (the one whose drive you want to access), go to System Settings (macOS Ventura and later) or System Preferences (macOS Monterey and earlier).
3. Navigate to General (Ventura+) or Startup Disk (Monterey-):
   • For macOS Ventura or later: Click on General in the sidebar, then scroll down and click Transfer or Reset. You’ll see an option labeled Use as a Target Disk.
   • For macOS Monterey or earlier: Click on the Startup Disk icon.
4. Initiate Target Disk Mode:
   • Ventura+: Click the Use as a Target Disk... button.
   • Monterey-: Click the Target Disk Mode... button.
5. Confirm Restart: Your Mac will ask if you want to restart in Target Disk Mode. Confirm by clicking Restart.
6. Observe the Target Mac: The target Mac will restart and display a large FireWire, Thunderbolt, or USB-C icon on its screen, indicating it’s successfully in Target Disk Mode. It will then appear as an external drive on your host Mac’s desktop or in Finder.

Method 2: From a Shut Down Mac (Common for Troubleshooting/Recovery)

This is often the method you’ll use when your target Mac isn’t booting properly.

1. Ensure Target Mac is Off: Make sure the Mac you want to access is completely shut down. If it’s frozen or stuck, hold down the power button until it powers off.
2. Connect the Macs: Use the appropriate cable to connect the two Macs securely.
3. Power On While Holding ‘T’: Press the power button on the target Mac, and immediately hold down the T key on its keyboard. Keep holding T until you see the large FireWire, Thunderbolt, or USB-C icon appear on its screen. This might take a few seconds.
4. Observe the Target Mac: Once the icon appears, you can release the T key. The target Mac is now in Target Disk Mode and should appear as an external drive on your host Mac’s desktop or in a Finder window.

It’s really that simple. I’ve personally used this second method countless times to rescue data from Macs that refused to cooperate. It’s a moment of relief when that hard drive icon finally pops up on the host Mac’s desktop, I tell ya!

Connecting the Macs: Cable Compatibility is Key!

This is where things can get a little tricky, but it’s absolutely crucial to get right. The type of cable you need depends entirely on the ports available on both your “target” (the Mac going into TDM) and “host” Macs. Apple has used several different high-speed data transfer ports over the years, and they are not always cross-compatible without adapters.

Understanding the Port Types:

• FireWire (400 & 800):

  An older, but still reliable, interface. FireWire 400 (smaller, 4-pin or 6-pin connector) and FireWire 800 (larger, 9-pin connector) are distinct. If one Mac has FireWire 800 and the other FireWire 400, you’ll need an 800-to-400 cable.

  My Tip: FireWire cables are becoming harder to find, but if you have older Macs, they’re essential. Remember, FireWire 400 usually maxes out around 40-50 MB/s, while FireWire 800 can reach 80-100 MB/s.

• Thunderbolt 1 & 2 (Mini DisplayPort Connector):

  These ports look identical to Mini DisplayPorts, but they carry much more data and power. If your Macs have these, you’ll need a Thunderbolt 1/2 cable (which are also often labeled as Thunderbolt 2 cables). These typically offer speeds up to 10 Gbps per channel.

  My Tip: Don’t confuse a Mini DisplayPort cable with a Thunderbolt 1/2 cable! They look the same, but only a genuine Thunderbolt cable will work for TDM. The Thunderbolt symbol (a lightning bolt) should be visible on the connector.

• Thunderbolt 3 & 4 / USB-C (USB-C Connector):

  This is the current standard for most modern Macs (since 2016 for MacBook Pros, and expanding to other models). These ports are incredibly versatile and fast, supporting speeds up to 40 Gbps. You’ll need a Thunderbolt 3/4 cable (which uses the USB-C connector) to connect Macs with these ports. Note that while USB-C *looks* the same, not all USB-C cables are Thunderbolt cables, and only true Thunderbolt cables will work for TDM.

  My Tip: Make sure you’re using a certified Thunderbolt 3 or 4 cable. Many generic USB-C cables are designed for charging or USB 2.0/3.0 data transfer and *will not work* for Target Disk Mode, even if they fit the port. Look for the lightning bolt icon on the cable itself.

Cable Compatibility Table (General Guidance):

This table offers a quick guide, but always double-check your specific Mac models’ port configurations.

Remember, it’s about matching ports on *both* ends. If your Mac has a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port, but your old target Mac only has FireWire 800, you’ll need a chain of adapters (Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2, then Thunderbolt 2 to FireWire) and a FireWire cable. It can be a little pricey to get all the right adapters, but it’s an investment if you frequently work with different generations of Macs. I’ve definitely had to build up a collection of these cables and adapters over the years!

What to Do Once in Target Disk Mode: Accessing and Managing Data

Alright, you’ve successfully put your Mac into Target Disk Mode, and its drive icon has popped up on your host Mac’s desktop. Now what? This is where the real work begins, and it’s pretty much like interacting with any other external hard drive.

Accessing Files and Copying Data

1. Locate the Drive: The target Mac’s internal drive will appear on your host Mac’s desktop (if you have that Finder preference enabled) or in the Finder sidebar under “Locations.” It will usually be named “Macintosh HD” or whatever the target Mac’s boot drive was named.
2. Browse Files: Double-click the drive icon to open it. You’ll see the standard macOS folder structure (Applications, Library, System, Users, etc.). Your personal files will primarily be within the “Users” folder, under your user account’s home folder.
3. Copy Files: Simply drag and drop files or folders from the target Mac’s drive to a location on your host Mac (e.g., your desktop, Documents folder) or to another external drive connected to your host Mac. You can also copy files *to* the target Mac’s drive, though this is less common during recovery.
4. Check Permissions: Sometimes, you might encounter permission issues, especially if the target Mac had multiple user accounts or encrypted folders. You may need to authenticate with an administrator password from the *target* Mac to access certain locked folders. If this happens and you don’t have the password, recovery might be more complicated, possibly requiring third-party data recovery software or specialist help. However, for most user files, simply copying them should work fine.

Running Disk Utility on the Target Drive

This is a crucial step if the target Mac was having issues and you suspect drive corruption.

1. Open Disk Utility: On your host Mac, go to Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility.
2. Select the Target Drive: In the Disk Utility sidebar, locate and select the internal drive of the Mac in Target Disk Mode. Be absolutely sure you’ve selected the correct drive! It will typically show up as an external drive.
3. Run First Aid: Click the First Aid button in the toolbar. This will check the drive for errors and attempt to repair them. It’s a good practice to run this even if you just plan to copy data, as it can catch underlying issues.

4. Erase/Reformat (Use with Extreme Caution!): If you’re completely reinstalling macOS on the target Mac or repurposing its drive, you can use Disk Utility to erase and reformat it. WARNING: This will permanently delete all data on the drive. Only do this if you are absolutely certain you have backed up everything important or are intentionally wiping the drive.

Installing macOS onto the Target Mac’s Drive

If you’re using Target Disk Mode to fix a problematic macOS installation, you can actually install a fresh copy of the operating system directly onto the target Mac’s internal drive.

1. Prepare for Installation: You’ll likely want to erase the target Mac’s drive first via Disk Utility (see above) if you’re doing a clean install.
2. Start macOS Installer: On your host Mac, open the macOS installer application (which you should download from the App Store beforehand).
3. Select Destination: When the installer asks where you want to install macOS, select the internal drive of the Mac currently in Target Disk Mode. The installer will treat it like any other connected volume.
4. Proceed with Installation: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Once done, you can safely exit Target Disk Mode. When the target Mac boots up normally, it should launch into the newly installed macOS.

I find this capability incredibly useful for technicians or anyone trying to revive a Mac that won’t boot its OS. It truly makes the entire process so much more manageable.

Exiting Target Disk Mode Safely

Just like with any external hard drive, it’s vital to eject the target Mac’s drive safely before physically disconnecting the cable. Failing to do so can lead to data corruption on the target drive or even issues with the host Mac.

1. Eject the Drive on the Host Mac:
   • From the Desktop: Drag the target Mac’s drive icon to the Trash (the Trash icon will change to an Eject icon).
   • From Finder: Click the Eject symbol (⏏) next to the drive’s name in the Finder sidebar.
   • From Disk Utility: Select the target drive in Disk Utility and click the “Eject” button.

   You’ll know it’s safely ejected when the drive icon disappears from your desktop/Finder sidebar.

2. Disconnect the Cable: Once the drive has been safely ejected, you can physically disconnect the Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire cable from both Macs.
3. Power Off or Restart the Target Mac: The Mac that was in Target Disk Mode will typically remain on, showing the FireWire/Thunderbolt/USB-C icon. You can then press and hold its power button until it shuts down completely, or simply press the power button once to initiate a normal startup sequence (it should boot into its macOS, assuming everything is in order).

Always, always eject properly. It’s a simple step that prevents a world of headaches, trust me on this one!

Troubleshooting Common Target Disk Mode Issues

While Target Disk Mode is generally reliable, you might occasionally run into a snag. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• Target Mac Not Entering TDM (No Icon):

  If you press T and the Mac just boots normally or shows a question mark folder, check a few things:

  • Are you holding ‘T’ immediately? You need to press and hold T as soon as you hit the power button.
  • Is the keyboard working? Try a different keyboard if it’s external, or ensure the built-in keyboard is functional.
  • Is the Mac getting power? A completely dead battery or power issue might prevent it from even reaching TDM.
  • Is it an Apple Silicon Mac? For Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, etc.), the process is slightly different. You’ll need to boot into Recovery Mode (Power button > Continue holding until "Loading startup options"), then choose Options > Utilities > Share Disk. It achieves the same goal but uses a different initiation method.
• Target Mac in TDM, But Not Showing on Host Mac:

  This usually points to a connection issue:

  • Cable Check: Is the cable properly seated on both ends? Is it the *correct* type of cable (Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt, FireWire to FireWire, etc.)? Remember, not all USB-C cables are Thunderbolt cables.
  • Adapter Check: If using adapters, are they genuine Apple adapters (or high-quality, certified alternatives)? Are they connected in the correct order?
  • Host Mac Port: Is the port on the host Mac functional? Try connecting another external device to test it.
  • Restart Host Mac: Sometimes a simple restart of the host Mac can resolve detection issues.
• Slow Transfer Speeds:

  If transfers feel sluggish, consider these factors:

  • Cable Quality/Type: An older FireWire 400 connection will be much slower than Thunderbolt 3. Even with Thunderbolt, a cheap, non-certified cable might limit speeds.
  • Drive Type: If the target Mac has a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) rather than a Solid State Drive (SSD), transfers will naturally be slower, regardless of the connection speed.
  • Disk Health: A failing drive on the target Mac can also lead to abysmal transfer speeds as it struggles to read data.
  • File Fragmentation: Highly fragmented files on an HDD can slow things down.
• Permission Issues Accessing Files:

  As mentioned earlier, if you can’t access certain folders:

  • You might need the administrator password for the *target* Mac to unlock encrypted or system-protected directories.
  • In some cases, you might need to change permissions using the host Mac’s Disk Utility or Get Info panel, but be cautious when doing this on another user’s drive.
• Target Mac’s Drive is Uninitialized or Not Readable:

  If the drive appears in Disk Utility but you can’t mount it or see its contents, it might be severely corrupted or encrypted with a password you don’t have.

  • Run First Aid: Always try First Aid first.
  • Check Encryption: If it’s a FileVault encrypted drive, you’ll need the user’s password to unlock it on the host Mac via Finder or Disk Utility.
  • Data Recovery Specialist: If Disk Utility fails and data is critical, it might be time to consult a professional data recovery service.

My Take: Why Target Disk Mode Remains Indispensable

In an age where cloud storage, Wi-Fi transfers, and various networking solutions are prevalent, some might wonder if Target Disk Mode is still relevant. And my answer, without a shadow of a doubt, is a resounding YES! It maintains a unique position because it offers a direct, physical, high-speed connection that bypasses the operating system’s complexities and potential failures. While iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox are fantastic for syncing and sharing, they don’t help you much when your Mac won’t even power on.

For data recovery, especially from a non-booting machine, Target Disk Mode is often the fastest, most reliable, and least invasive first step. You’re not relying on network speeds, software workarounds, or complicated boot environments. You’re simply turning one Mac into a big, accessible external hard drive. It’s a testament to Apple’s foresight in building such a robust, low-level functionality into their hardware.

Compared to buying an external enclosure and physically removing the internal drive (which is often impossible with modern glued-shut Macs and soldered-in SSDs), TDM is a non-destructive, elegant solution. It preserves the integrity of the target Mac while giving you unparalleled access to its data. I’ve personally seen it save countless hours and prevent immense heartache by allowing quick and effective data rescue.

Target Disk Mode vs. Migration Assistant vs. AirDrop: Clarifying Use Cases

It’s easy to confuse these methods, as they all involve moving data between Macs. However, their specific applications differ quite a bit.

• Target Disk Mode:
  • Purpose: Turns one Mac into an external drive for direct access by another Mac.
  • Best For: Data recovery from a non-booting Mac, troubleshooting a problematic drive, super-fast initial data transfer for Migration Assistant, using an old Mac as a drive.
  • How it works: Hardware-level connection over Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire.
• Migration Assistant:
  • Purpose: Transfers user accounts, applications, settings, and files from one Mac or backup to another.
  • Best For: Setting up a new Mac with all your old data, migrating from a Time Machine backup.
  • How it works: Software utility that can use Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or a direct cable connection (including a Mac in Target Disk Mode) to transfer data. It’s an *application* that utilizes the connection.
• AirDrop:
  • Purpose: Quick, wireless transfer of individual files or small groups of files between nearby Apple devices.
  • Best For: Sending a few photos to a friend’s iPhone, sharing a document with a colleague, quick ad-hoc transfers.
  • How it works: Uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to create a peer-to-peer connection for wireless transfers.

In short, TDM is the foundation, giving you raw access. Migration Assistant is the intelligent mover, structuring the transfer. AirDrop is the quick courier for small, immediate needs. Each has its place, but TDM remains unique in its ability to bypass a failing OS and provide direct drive access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use Target Disk Mode wirelessly?

No, Target Disk Mode requires a direct physical cable connection. It leverages high-speed ports like Thunderbolt, USB-C, or FireWire for direct, hardware-level access to the drive, bypassing the operating system. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections, while convenient for other tasks like AirDrop or network file sharing, simply don’t offer the necessary direct access or speed required for Target Disk Mode’s functionality.

While Apple Silicon Macs have a “Share Disk” feature that functions similarly and *can* be initiated over a network (if the Mac is in Recovery and a network connection is available), the core “Target Disk Mode” as traditionally understood is strictly a wired connection to ensure maximum speed and reliability, especially in scenarios like data recovery where the macOS might not be fully functional.

Does Target Disk Mode erase data?

Absolutely not. Entering Target Disk Mode simply changes how your Mac boots and presents its internal storage; it does not modify, erase, or delete any data on the drive. It merely makes the drive accessible as an external volume to another computer. Think of it like plugging in a USB drive – the act of plugging it in doesn’t erase its contents. Data loss would only occur if you explicitly used the host Mac’s Disk Utility to erase or reformat the target Mac’s drive, which is a separate, intentional action you would have to take.

What if my Mac doesn’t have a Thunderbolt or FireWire port?

If your Mac is a newer model (generally 2016 or later) and only has USB-C ports, then those USB-C ports are likely Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 compatible. In this case, you’ll need a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 (USB-C to USB-C) cable to use Target Disk Mode. Make sure it’s a true Thunderbolt cable, not just a generic USB-C cable, as not all USB-C cables support the necessary data transfer protocols for TDM.

If your Mac is much older and lacks these high-speed ports entirely, or if it’s an Apple Silicon Mac that doesn’t explicitly have the traditional Thunderbolt/FireWire TDM option, then you might need to use the “Share Disk” feature in macOS Recovery mode (for Apple Silicon Macs) or consider other data transfer methods like physically removing the drive (if possible and you have the right enclosure) or network file sharing (if the Mac can still boot). However, for most Macs from the last 15-20 years, some form of TDM-compatible port will be present.

Can I boot another Mac from a Mac in Target Disk Mode?

Yes, you absolutely can! Once a Mac is in Target Disk Mode, its internal drive appears as an external volume on the host Mac. The host Mac can then treat this volume like any other bootable external drive. You can go to the host Mac’s System Settings/Preferences > Startup Disk, or hold down the Option key during startup, and select the target Mac’s drive as the boot volume. This is a fantastic way to test a macOS installation on another machine or to boot into a specific OS version stored on the target Mac.

Is Target Disk Mode faster than a regular external drive?

In many cases, yes, Target Disk Mode can be significantly faster than using a generic external hard drive, particularly if both Macs have fast internal SSDs and are connected via Thunderbolt 3/4. The reason is that TDM creates a direct, high-bandwidth connection between the two Macs’ storage controllers. You’re effectively getting the full speed of the target Mac’s internal drive, limited only by the speed of the connection (Thunderbolt/FireWire) and the speed of the host Mac’s drive (if copying to it).

Many external hard drives, especially older ones that connect via slower USB 2.0 or even some USB 3.0 interfaces, won’t match the throughput you can achieve with a modern Thunderbolt TDM setup. Even with an SSD in an external enclosure, the enclosure’s controller and interface can sometimes be a bottleneck. TDM often provides a more direct, unhindered data path.

Will an Apple Silicon Mac work with Target Disk Mode in the same way?

Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, etc.) support a very similar function, but it’s officially called “Share Disk” and is initiated differently. Instead of holding T at startup, you boot the Apple Silicon Mac into Recovery Mode by holding down the power button until “Loading startup options” appears. From the Recovery Utilities menu, you’ll find “Share Disk.”

Once activated, it behaves almost identically to traditional Target Disk Mode: the Apple Silicon Mac’s drive will appear as a network share or an external volume (if connected via Thunderbolt) on another Mac. The underlying principle is the same – allowing another Mac to access its internal storage – but the method of entry and the exact terminology have evolved slightly with the new architecture. It still requires a direct cable connection for optimal performance and classic TDM behavior.