How to bypass Gatekeeper for blocked apps on macOS

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Trigger the initial security alert

   Attempt to open the application from your Applications folder or wherever it is saved. A system dialog will appear stating the app cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer. Click OK to dismiss the alert.

2. 30 sec

   Access System Settings

   Open the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen. Select System Settings from the dropdown menu. Navigate to the Privacy & Security tab in the sidebar.

3. 1 min

   Locate the security exception section

   Scroll down the Privacy & Security panel until you reach the Security section. Look for a message indicating that your Mac blocked the use of the application. It will be near the bottom of the list.

   Note: This option only appears immediately after you attempt to launch the blocked app.
4. 30 sec

   Override the block

   Click the button labeled Open Anyway next to the application name. macOS will prompt you to enter your user account password or use Touch ID to confirm the change. Enter your credentials to proceed.

5. 30 sec

   Launch the application

   A final confirmation dialog will appear asking if you are sure you want to open the file. Click Open to launch the application. The app will now be added to your system's allowed list, and you will not be prompted again.

   Note: Only perform this for applications from sources you trust.