Full Disk Access Mac

To enable full disk access on your Mac:

1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access.
2. Once there, click the + icon, choose the antivirus software from the list, and then click Open.  
3. Make sure that the switch is turned on.

What is full disk access on Mac

Full Disk Access is a privacy feature in macOS’ System Settings that enables apps to access files and folders typically protected by your computer’s system. While most apps require these permissions, it’s particularly crucial for antiviruses, which must safeguard the entire disk.

A note from our experts: 

 

If you’re concerned that granting an app full disk access could pose security risks, we recommend that you protect your computer with a reliable antivirus program. As such, MacKeeper’s Antivirus is an excellent choice for safeguarding all the files on your Mac.

 

Here are the steps you need to follow to use MacKeeper’s Smart Antivirus:

1. Launch MacKeeper on your MacBook or Mac.
2. Select Antivirus under Security.
3. Hit Start Scan.
4. Wait until the scanning process is complete.
5. Click Check All to choose all threats, then click Move to Quarantine.
6. Hit Restart.
7. After the app relaunches, click Quarantine and select all threats again.
8. Click Delete to finalize the process.

Why is full disk access important on macOS

Granting an app full disk access is essential for it to function properly. If you don’t give programs such as antivirus software, backup tools, and disk management apps permission to access protected system files, they may be unable to access critical data on your Mac that is necessary for them to perform effectively.

1. Improved app performance

We recommend granting an app requiring full disk access the necessary permissions to ensure it functions properly. For instance, with antivirus software, allowing these permissions enables the program to scan and manage system files, ultimately improving performance.

If you suspect the app’s malfunction might be linked to your device’s overall poor performance, we suggest reading our guide on how to clear the startup disk on Mac.

2. Enhanced security and privacy

Additionally, we believe that granting full disk access to cybersecurity programs is crucial for ensuring your computer’s overall security and privacy. In the end, you likely intend to protect your Mac when you install antivirus software. However, we think these programs won’t be effective if they can’t perform all their necessary functions.

If you recognize the importance of this but are experiencing difficulties with accepting these permissions, we suggest starting by repairing the permissions on your Mac.

3. Essential for backup and security apps

The same applies to several apps that require permission to access the entire disk. Apps such as Time Machine, backup tools, and security software like VPNs may not function correctly. We believe this is particularly important for backup tools, as a failure to configure them properly could lead to potential data loss if your Mac is lost.

For more tips on backing up your Apple device, we advise troubleshooting any issues with external hard drives that are not showing up on a Mac.

4. What happens if you don’t enable full disk access

So, what will happen if you don’t grant permission to these apps? In our opinion, the most likely outcome is that your antivirus software won’t perform full Mac scans, leaving some parts unprotected. Additionally, you may experience failed backups when using backup tools or malfunctioning utilities.

How to enable full disk access on macOS

To fully benefit from the features of antivirus software, backup tools, and other utilities, you should learn first how to enable full disk access on Mac. This will allow these apps direct access to your system files and folders.

Here’s how to enable full disk access to an app on Mac:

1. Go to the Apple logo from your Mac’s menu bar.
2. Click System Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. Scroll down to find Privacy & Security, then click Full Disk Access.
4. Click the plus icon (+).
5. Enter your password if prompted.
6. Find the app in your Applications folder, then click Open.
7. Make sure the toggle is on.

Risks of granting full disk access on Mac

Giving full disk access to an app carries certain risks, especially if the app hasn’t been downloaded from the Mac App Store or a trusted website. It’s crucial to enable this feature only for apps from verified developers that you trust to access your personal and system files.

What are the risks of not following this advice?

1. App misuse or overreach

When you grant access to the entire disk, there’s a risk that the app could misuse the data it’s allowed to access or even reach data that you prefer to keep private. As such, we suggest carefully considering which apps you permit this access.

2. Lack of granular permission control

As the name implies, the Full Disk Access feature allows access to your entire Mac disk. However, macOS doesn’t allow users to limit access to specific folders. We hope that future software updates from Apple will allow for more customizable permission settings.

3. Potential data exposure

These factors contribute to the potential exposure of personal data. While we believe the risk is generally lower with official, Apple-verified apps, we also recommend being cautious with apps downloaded outside the Mac App Store. Malicious apps could steal or leak your sensitive information.

The ultimate guide to allow full disk access on Mac

Many apps on macOS require full disk access to function properly. While this access is essential for their operation, it also carries some risks. As such, we recommend carefully considering which apps you grant these permissions to and thinking about the potential consequences.

The risks are particularly significant for apps downloaded from sources outside the Mac App Store. In such cases, it becomes even more crucial to install and use MacKeeper’s Antivirus. This software will provide your Mac with the necessary security and give you peace of mind.