MacMost Now 742: Understanding Gatekeeper

Gatekeeper is a new security feature of OS X in Mountain Lion. It allows you to prevent apps from being installed depending upon the source of the app. You can decide to only allow Mac App Store apps, or also allow signed apps, or turn off Gatekeeper if you don't want to use it. Learn how to set Gatekeeper and why it will help you keep your Mac more secure.

Comments: 9 Responses to “MacMost Now 742: Understanding Gatekeeper”

    Michael A.
    12 years ago

    So if I turn off Gatekeeper, install unsigned software, and re-enable Gatekeeper, the unsigned software will run? I thought Gatekeeper would stop anything unsigned from running, regardless of how or when it was "installed".

      12 years ago

      I think it may warn you, but it doesn't stop you.

    Michael A.
    12 years ago

    OK, Apple's high-level Mountain Lion features page also says there is a "manual override" for Gatekeeper (http://www.apple.com/osx/whats-new/features.html#gatekeeper). While this feature eliminates a lot of people's objections to using Gatekeeper, it seems like it makes it a less effective malware repellent.

      12 years ago

      Well, there's only so far it can go, right? I mean, you can also hit your Mac with a hammer -- know what I mean? If you are warned over and over and you still want to install, then...
      Keep in mind that this is separate from Malware security. If something is registered or recognized as Malware, there's a whole other system that kicks in and I don't think you can bypass that so easily.

    Tina
    12 years ago

    Ok, I understand the function of Gatekeeper. But how does it work with OS X's built in malware scanner (xProtect)? I have also heard that there is another application called "file quarantine" which also protects you from malware. Do all 3 of the applications work in a sequence or do they serve different functions? And are there any other applications after these 3 that provide additional layers of protection from malware? I have heard Mountain Lion has sandboxing and ASLR.

      12 years ago

      It doesn't work "with" it, it works "in addition to" it. They are separate systems.
      Never used file quarantine.
      The Mac App Store (not MLion, really) has sandboxing, but that only applies to apps that are in the Mac App Store and is really more of a stability thing, not anti-malware. If you download something from a third-party untrusted source, then they can put anything in their code, just as you can if you were a developer. Doesn't mean it is bad. As a matter of fact, some great apps need to be sold outside of the Mac App Store to provide advanced functionality.
      It sounds like you are very concerned about this. Which is good and means you will probably have no problems as you'll be investigating and contemplating each piece of software you install. The danger is really with the people that install tons of software without thinking about it.

    Mr Anthony Cotton
    11 years ago

    Sorry for the late reply,because i did notice it in my email. Then i looked at another email you sent,and it was in there. Yes and this video was very helpful. Gary

    Mr Anthony Cotton
    11 years ago

    I have just tried it again with the settings to any developer,but it does not work so i have just sent an email to the developer. Which it tells you to do if it does not work. I have completely trashed it. I get all of my downloads from C-Net,and my page is set for only Mac downloads. I believe they are a reputable website,and this is the first time an App has not worked. I am going to get a new download to see if that works. Gary

    Mr Anthony Cotton
    11 years ago

    Yes it works great thats what the guy recommended to do, a new download of the YouTube Application,and it should work. Thanks again for pointing this out in the email you sent me Gary.

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