Format failure and locked the USB

balenaEtcher
1

Not sure if this is a request for help or just a major complaint. Either way, I was trying to create a flash of Unbuntu, formatted the USB which was the F: drive, ran the Etcher program, during the process a message popped up that the H: drive needed to be formatted, selected format and received an error that the drive was write locked. Quit that then went back to F: and tried to format and start over and again was given an error F: was write protected. So now I have a useless USB stick and still no image to use!

2

I understand your frustration, that sounds like a tough situation! This is definitely a request for help, and I can guide you through fixing the write-protected USB drive and creating your Ubuntu bootable media.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  1. Unlock the Write Protection:
  • Windows:
    • Search “Disk Management.”
    • Find your USB drive (F: drive), right-click and select “Properties.”
    • Go to the “Security” tab and check permissions for “Everyone” or your user group. Ensure “Write” is allowed.
  • Mac:
    • Use “Disk Utility” application.
    • Select your USB drive, click “Unlock” (if available). You might need your admin password.
  1. Reformat the USB Drive:
  • Windows: Right-click the USB drive in “Disk Management,” select “Format” and choose a file system (e.g., FAT32).
  • Mac: In “Disk Utility,” select the USB drive, click “Erase,” choose a name and format (e.g., MS-DOS (FAT32)).
  1. Create Bootable Ubuntu Media (Again):
  • Use Etcher again, selecting the downloaded Ubuntu image and your now-unlocked USB drive.

Here are some additional tips:

  • Try a different USB drive: If the issue persists, try formatting another USB drive.
  • Alternative tools: If Etcher continues to have issues, consider alternative tools like Rufus for creating bootable media.

By following these steps, you should be able to remove the write protection, reformat the USB drive, and create your Ubuntu bootable media successfully.

3

Using disk management there was no “security” option when right clicking on the drive. Using a second USB drive yielded identical results. Two high capacity USB drives are now trash, which is my opinion of this program.Absolute garbage.