Some apps install kernel extensions, or KEXTs-a kind of system extension that works using older methods that aren’t as secure or reliable as modern alternatives. “System extensions work in the background to extend the functionality of your Mac without requiring kernel access. This is how Apple describes macOS system extensions : Seen as a major security advancement, system extensions run in the more tightly controlled userspace, outside of the kernel, to provide third-party developers with access to OS-level functionality while improving security and reliability. To counter this vulnerability, Apple announced macOS system extensions at its 2019 Worldwide Developer Conference as a way to begin pivoting away from kernel extensions. While KEXTs has allowed third-party developers to launch increasingly complex app functionality, they’ve also become an alarming attack vector for bad actors targeting macOS. Historically, this has been achieved through kernel extensions or KEXTs, which enable code to be executed at the macOS kernel level.

To create powerful apps, developers often need direct access to macOS hardware, peripheral hardware, or other OS functionality. Third-party developers have long been dreaming up ways to extend the native capabilities of macOS. Have no fear-here is everything you need to know about Apple extensions. But what lead to this move? What accounts for the kernel extension being replaced in favor of system extensions? One of them involved restricting the installation of legacy kernel extensions and moving toward safer and more secure macOS system extensions. To maintain their status in the marketplace, Apple decided to address certain security issues with their macOS devices.

For companies that prioritize these considerations, macOS is their go-to choice. It’s also no secret that Apple puts safety and security first when it comes to its devices. Over the years, Apple has cultivated a reputation for creating high-quality products that are well-designed, easy to use, and reliable.

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