How to Allow Apps from Unidentified Developers on macOS

By default, macOS restricts the installation of apps that aren’t from the App Store or identified developers. This is a security feature called Gatekeeper. If you trust the source, here’s how to manually allow the app to run.

Steps to Allow a Blocked App

1. Attempt to Open the App

• When you first open the app, you may see a warning saying it can’t be opened because it’s from an unidentified developer.

2. Open Security Settings

• Go to System Settings Privacy & Security.
• Scroll to the Security section.

3. Allow the App

• You’ll see a message like:
  “‘App Name’ was blocked from use because it is not from an identified developer.”
• Click “Allow Anyway”.

5. Open the App Again

• Right-click (or Control-click) the app and select Open.
• A confirmation dialog will appear. Click Open again.

Allowing Apps from Anywhere (Advanced Option)

Only use this method if you're confident in the app’s safety.

1. Open Terminal
   • Use Spotlight (Cmd + Space) and type Terminal.
2. Disable Gatekeeper’s Strict Mode
   • Enter your Mac admin password when prompted.
3. Enable the 'Anywhere' Option

• Go to System Settings Privacy & Security.
• Under “Allow apps downloaded from”, select Anywhere.

Safety Reminder

macOS protections are designed to keep you safe. Only bypass these settings for apps you trust fully, as disabling them can expose your Mac to potential threats.