How to Open Apps from Unidentified Developers on macOS

Learn how to bypass Gatekeeper security settings to run software from unidentified developers on your Mac safely.

1. Attempt to open the application. Locate the application in your Finder and double-click the icon. A dialog box will appear stating that the app cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer. Click OK to dismiss the dialog.
2. Open System Settings. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings. Navigate to the Privacy & Security tab in the sidebar.
3. Locate the security prompt. Scroll down to the Security section. You will see a message noting that the application you just attempted to open was blocked from use. Click the Open Anyway button located next to this message.
4. Confirm with credentials. A system prompt will appear requesting your administrative password or Touch ID verification. Enter your password or scan your fingerprint to authorize the change.
5. Launch the application. A final confirmation dialog will appear asking if you are certain you want to open the app. Click Open. The application will now launch and be saved as an exception in your system security settings.