As the newest version of macOS, Catalina has introduced a new security feature that prevents users from opening apps from unidentified developers. This feature provides an additional layer of security, but it can be frustrating for users who need to run apps from outside the app store. Fortunately, there are several ways to allow apps from unidentified developers on Mac Catalina.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
– A Mac running macOS Catalina
– An app from an unidentified developer
– Administrative access to the Mac
What Should I Pay Attention to?
Before allowing apps from unidentified developers on Mac Catalina, you should be aware of the risks involved. Apps from unidentified developers may contain viruses or malware that can harm your Mac. Only download apps from reputable sources that have been verified as safe.
Method 1: Allow Apps from Anywhere
1. Open System Preferences on your Mac.
2. Click on Security & Privacy.
3. Click on the General tab.
4. Click on the lock icon in the bottom left corner and enter your administrator password.
5. Under the section labeled "Allow apps downloaded from," select "Anywhere."
6. When prompted, click on "Allow From Anywhere."
Pros
This method allows you to run apps from any source, giving you greater flexibility in the apps you can use.
Cons
Allowing apps from anywhere can increase the risk of downloading malicious apps, which can harm your Mac.
Method 2: Override Security Check
1. Right-click on the app you want to run and select "Open."
2. When prompted with a security warning, click on "Open" again to override the security check.
Pros
This method provides a quick and easy way to override the security check and run an app from an unidentified developer.
Cons
Overriding the security check can put your Mac at risk if you download an app that contains malware.
Method 3: Use Terminal
1. Open Terminal on your Mac.
2. Type "sudo spctl –master-disable" and press Enter.
3. Enter your administrator password when prompted.
4. Run the app you want to use.
5. Open Terminal again.
6. Type "sudo spctl –master-enable" and press Enter.
Pros
This method provides a quick way to disable the security check and run an app from an unidentified developer, while restoring the security setting when you are done.
Cons
Using Terminal commands can be intimidating for some users, and it can be easy to make a mistake that can harm your Mac.
Why Can’t I Allow Apps from Unidentified Developers on Mac Catalina?
1. You may not have administrative access to your Mac.
2. Your Mac may be set to only allow apps from the app store and identified developers.
3. Your Mac may have a security setting that prevents the installation of apps from unidentified developers.
Fix:
1. Ensure that you have administrative access to your Mac.
2. Follow one of the methods listed above to allow apps from unidentified developers.
3. Check your security settings and make sure that you have not enabled a setting that prevents the installation of apps from unidentified developers.
Suggestions
– Only download apps from reputable sources that have been verified as safe.
– When in doubt, err on the side of caution and do not download apps from unknown sources.
– Regularly update your macOS and security settings to ensure that you are protected from new threats.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to allow apps from unidentified developers on Mac Catalina?
A: Allowing apps from unidentified developers can increase the risk of downloading malicious apps that can harm your Mac. Only download apps from reputable sources that have been verified as safe.
Q: How can I check if an app is safe to download?
A: Check the app’s website to ensure that it is from a reputable source. You can also search for reviews or ratings of the app to see if others have had positive experiences with it.
Q: How do I know if an app is from an unidentified developer?
A: When you attempt to open an app that is not from the app store or identified developer, you will receive a warning message stating that the app is from an unidentified developer.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally download an app that contains malware?
A: Immediately delete the app from your Mac and run a malware scan to ensure that your Mac is not infected.
Q: Can I permanently allow apps from unidentified developers on Mac Catalina?
A: No, the security feature that prevents the installation of apps from unidentified developers is an important security measure that helps protect your Mac from malware and viruses. It is recommended that users only allow apps from identified developers or the app store.