How to Install an App If Your Mac Can’t Verify the Developer
Mac computers have security features installed by default that prevent you from installing applications that contain viruses or malware. This is generally a great system, but sometimes it has a downside: when you try to install an app that hasn’t been verified by Apple, it throws a “can’t open because the developer can’t be verified” error, and the only option is to move the app to the Trash .
Apple’s installation system depends on a layer of security called Gatekeeper that will prevent you from installing an application that has not been verified by Apple. Large developers usually go through the verification process, but not every developer.
If the app is not verified, you should obviously look at the developer’s history and see if it comes from a trusted website. A quick Google search will show you if others have reported any issues with the app you want to install. However, if you’re not sure the app is 100% safe, don’t risk it: use the following trick only if you can confirm that the app and its developer are legal.
How to Bypass Gatekeeper on Your Mac
Once you are sure the app is safe, there are two ways you can do it. Your first option is to hold down the Control key while opening the app and you will see an ” Open ” option in the box; click it once and then click ” Open ” again in the security warning window. This method is fast and will work in most cases. If this is not the case, you can use the System Preferences to pass the gatekeeper check. Launch the app (even if it doesn’t open), then go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General . Click the lock icon to authenticate and unlock the section. You should see the name of the app under Allow apps to download from . Next to the app’s name, click ” Open Anyway ” and in the security box, click ” Open .” That’s it, and you should be on your way.