How to Disable Gatekeeper on macOS

Complete guide to allow apps from unidentified developers on macOS.

The Problem

When you try to open an app downloaded from the internet, macOS shows:

• "App can't be opened because it is not from an identified developer"
• App bounces in dock but never opens
• "Allow Anyway" button doesn't work or doesn't appear

The Solution

Step 1: Disable Gatekeeper via Terminal

1. Open Terminal (press Cmd + Space, type "Terminal")
2. Run this command:

   sudo spctl --master-disable

3. Enter your admin password when prompted
4. You'll see: "Globally disabling the assessment system needs to be confirmed in System Settings"

Step 2: Confirm in System Settings

1. Open System Settings → Privacy & Security
2. Navigate away from Privacy & Security (click "Lock Screen" or any other section)
3. Navigate back to Privacy & Security
4. Scroll down to the "Security" section
5. Find "Allow applications downloaded from:"
6. Select "Anywhere" (this option only appears after Step 1)
7. A dialog will appear asking "Allow From Anywhere?"
8. Click "Allow From Anywhere" button
9. Enter your admin password to confirm

Step 3: Test Your App

Your previously blocked app should now open normally. Double-click to launch it.

If the app still doesn't open, try:

• Right-click the app → "Open"
• Or go back to System Settings → Privacy & Security and look for a message about the blocked app with an "Allow Anyway" button

Notes

• This disables macOS security checks for all downloaded apps
• Only do this if you trust the apps you're installing
• You can re-enable Gatekeeper anytime with: sudo spctl --master-enable