Install Software from Unsigned Developers on a Mac

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Whether it’s protecting users from malicious software or simply trying to push purchasers to the Mac App Store, the new Gatekeeper feature in Mac OS X Mountain Lion can get in the way when it comes to installing software. By default, a Mac running Mountain Lion will block the installation of apps that are not from the Mac App Store or created by identified developers. But what if you know the software you are installing is safe even if it didn’t come from the Mac App Store or an identified developer? Here’s how to sneak past that stubborn Gatekeeper!

Steps

Exception for One Specific Software

  1. Download the software as you normally would from the internet. If asked if you want to "keep" or "discard" the file, select keep. Note that you should only do this if you are certain you trust the publisher of the software.
  2. Open the software and get the error message that your software "can't be opened because it is from an unidentified developer." Click OK.
  3. Try opening the software again but this time right click on the software. (You can right click on a Mac, by pressing ctrl and clicking simultaneously). Select open from the menu.
  4. You should now be given the option to open the software. Click "open".

Permanent Change to for All Software

  1. Click the System Preferences icon on your Dock. Alternatively, you can click on the Apple icon in the top left of your screen and then click "System Preferences."
  2. Click Security & Privacy. It will be located under the heading "Personal."
  3. Click the lock in the bottom left of window. Enter your password when prompted. Then, click Unlock.
  4. Click the box next to "Anywhere." This will be located in the "General" Section, under "Accept Applications Downloaded From: ". You will now be able to install your software as normal. Click the lock again if you wish to prevent further changes.

Video

Tips

  • If you primarily download software from the Mac App Store, you can select the Mac App Store setting from the Security & Privacy pane within System Preferences to allow all apps downloaded from the Mac App Store to be installed on your Mac.
  • You can switch settings as often as you want to so, if you know a piece of software is safe to install, you can turn off Gatekeeper, install your app and then return to System Preferences to change the setting back to Mac App Store and identified developers if you wish.

Warnings

  • While it can be annoying, the Gatekeeper feature is designed to protect you. If you do set your Mac to allow all software to be installed, make sure you’re certain that the software you are installing is legitimate.
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