# Find apps installed on external drives

Enable Apps on other drives to scan Applications folders on connected external drives or partitions.

Last updated 26 October 2026

## Follow these steps

1. Connect the drive and confirm Finder can access it.

1. Open Settings › Layout › App Folders.

1. Enable Apps on other drives.

1. For a different app location, add that specific folder with Add Folder….

## What to expect

Apps in the configured connected locations can appear in CubbyPad. The setting discovers installations in place instead of copying them onto the internal disk.

An external drive must be available to open software stored on it. CubbyPad can keep a missing drive app’s position dimmed until the drive returns, preserving a useful arrangement.

## If the result is different

If an app is absent, inspect the drive’s actual folder structure and confirm it contains an app rather than only a disk-image installer. Check custom sources and Hidden Apps. If the drive is disconnected, reconnect it before treating the app as uninstalled.

For the broader walkthrough, read [when cubbypad does not open as expected](https://cubbypad.com/guides/troubleshooting/).

## Related answers.

[### Understand dimmed apps from an unplugged drive

CubbyPad can keep an external-drive app’s place dimmed while its drive is unavailable.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/disconnected-drive-placeholders/)[### Use a glass backdrop in CubbyPad

Choose Glass in Settings › Grid › Background for a frosted backdrop behind your app icons.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/background-glass/)[### Use your Mac wallpaper behind the app grid

Choose Wallpaper in Settings › Grid › Background when you want CubbyPad to use your Mac’s wallpaper presentation.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/background-wallpaper/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/help/external-drive-apps/