Learn How to Resolve macOS Error Code 36 File Cannot Be Written When Transferring Files

Description

Error Code - 36 happens when moving files.

The Finder can’t complete the operation because some data in “FileName” can’t be read or written. (Error code -36)”.

The macOS HSF+ creates a dot-underscore ._ file when they are moved to a FAT16 or FAT32 volume.
Hidden files on macOS start with ._ followed by the original filename.
Error - 36 happens when files from a Windows volume gets moved to a macOS and back again.

Resolution

dot_clean is a console tool in macOS.
It merges ._ files with the originals.

IMPORTANT:

The dot_clean must point to the directory path that has the problem.

1. Type Terminal in the search bar.
   Open a Terminal.


2. Copy the past the commmand.
   Press the enter key on the keyboard.
   
   

   dot_clean /Path/To/Directory/With/Problem/
   
   Example: dot_clean dot_clean ~/Documents/Project_105/



3. Move the file again.

• OS X Daily Article: How to Fix Error Code 36 in Mac OS X Finder
• SLR Lounge Article: “Error Code -36” on a Mac What Causes It and How to Fix It