How to Run Apps from Unidentified Developers on Mac
Mac's robust security features are a godsend, but they may sometimes get in the way of installing software fetched from sources that Apple does not deem to be trustworthy. In case this happens, users may see the error 'Can't be opened because it was not downloaded from the App Store.' This warning is shown in order to protect users from running unverified software, but in many cases this message is a false-positive – meaning that it is reporting a legitimate app as suspicious.
Thankfully, there is a way to bypass the warning. But, please make sure that the software you are running is indeed legitimate. If you plan to run apps from unidentified developers on Mac, we suggest investing in 3rd-party antivirus software, which could provide an extra layer of security against potentially harmful apps.
There are several ways to prevent Mac's Gatekeeper security module from preventing software installers from running.
Allows Mac to Run Apps not from the App Store
This is the recommended fix but, as we mentioned above, installing additional anti-malware software is recommended in order to keep your system, data, and privacy safe.
- Go to Apple Menu -> System Preferences -> Security & Privacy -> General.
- Double-click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner and enter your password.
- Find the 'Allow apps to be downloaded from' line at the bottom of the window, and then select 'App Store and identified developers.'
Opening an App from an Unidentified Developer
Keep in mind that the change above only approves identified developers that are not on the App Store. If you want to open software from an unidentified developer, then there is an extra step. Follow the aforementioned instructions to reach the Security & Privacy -> General tab. Then try to run the software you want to install – you will see the warning again, but this time you will get the button 'Open Anyway' in the Security & Privacy window. Click it to enable the execution of the blocked app.
The Easiest Trick to Open Any Apps
There is one last thing that you can do to open blocked apps. Simply go to Finder and then find the app you want to open. Instead of double-clicking its icon, right-click it and press Open. The software will open normally.
