Cannot approve some extensions in MacOS Sequoia

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Level 1

4 points

Cannot approve some extensions in MacOS Sequoia

Hello,

I have been using some applications until MacOS v14, without problems. These apps, namely ESET antivirus and Fortinet VPN client, were using MacOS system extensions. Those were enabled and working in v14.

After update to MacOS v15 Sequoia these extensions were working, but when I decided to reinstall the ESET software to a newer version, it installed a new version of system extensions.

Since then I am not able to "approve" this new extension in order to make it work. When I try to enable it through System settings, it says "Failed to enable "name of extension": The authorisation was denied".

I reviewed it using CLI tool "systemextensionsctl", where it says, that extensions are indeed installed, ready to use, but not approved by user. Also seems like there is no chance to enable it via command line. I also tried to "reset" the extensions approval using the same command line utility, which resulted in another extension being un-approved (obviously), but this one is also denied and I cannot approve it (Fortinet VPN tray).

So now I have two ESET extensions and one Fortinet extension, which worked in v14 and cannot be approved in MacOS v15.

I tried the usual things, like lowering security of MacOS using boot options (I had the security lowered from the very beginning since I am using third party VPN kernel modules), turning off MacOS integrity check, booting up in Safe mode. Nothing helps.

I also contacted ESET support, but they have no ideas for me except for what I have already tried. They are saying, that latest module version is capable of running on MacOS v15, but this version of MacOS seems to be buggy in this manner.

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 15.0

Posted on Oct 8, 2024 11:34 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Spidla Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 9, 2024 11:07 PM in response to Spidla

For others how may have the same problem.. I did resolve it by re-installing MacOS. To be precise I erased the hard drive using rescue mode, then re-installed using Sonoma installer which was present in rescue mode. In Sonoma I installed, allowed and approved every extensions I needed. Finally I upgraded to Sequoia. I did not try to disable/enable the extensions to see if it works. All the extensions were approved from Sonoma, so I am not touching it.

However, the issue is solved for now.

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Answer 2

Owl-53

Level 10

102,571 points

Oct 9, 2024 1:33 AM in response to Spidla

Once this type of software is installed and embedded into the computer >> ESET Antivirus software

You can spend hours or days hunting down all the bits and pieces of this software and never really get it all off the computer

Start Over from Scratch

For Apple Silicon computer >> Use Disk Utility to erase a Mac with Apple silicon.

For Apple Intel computers >> Use Disk Utility to erase an Intel-based Mac followed by How to reinstall macOS

Always make a Time Machine Backup before proceeding

If going this route - I suggest Not using Startup Assist to migrate everything back.

This will probably Re-Introduce ( ESET ) back into the Operating System

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Answer 3

Owl-53

Level 10

102,571 points

Oct 9, 2024 1:35 AM in response to Spidla

Add on

There are no known Windows-like Viruses in the wild that self replicate and affect macOS, because of the underling UNIX Foundation and Permission Limitation.

The Operating System resides in a Sealed and Read Only Volume that cannot be opened by the User nor by Third Party Applications.

The Only thing this Antivirus software is protecting is the Bank Account of the Developers and for zero return to the User aside from the problems this software creates.

AntiVirus Developers purposefully Market their product to create a “ Fear Factor “. In so doing, creating a False Need for their Product.

Security. Built right in

Mac app security enhancements

The Built in Security is all that is required to protect the computer.

Protecting against malware in macOS

There is Adware & Malware which will affect the computer and is generally downloaded from “ Shady “ Websites or Developers who Inject this software into the download.

From a well written User Tip from @Kurt Lang

What is malware? - Apple Community

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Answer 4

Spidla Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 9, 2024 2:04 AM in response to Owl-53

Yeah I understand that MacOS is mostly secure by itself due to its UNIX/BSD nature, but ESET software is giving some more functionality than just antivirus. Anyway I feel like the solution "do not bother, you do not need it anyway" is not a solution, no offense :-)

Also, more than just ESET is not working. I am not able to get on company VPN as Fortinet extension is not working either with very same error message. Seems like I am not able to approve any third-party extension.

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Answer 5

Owl-53

Level 10

102,571 points

Oct 9, 2024 2:13 AM in response to Spidla

There has been sufficient advise offered for the User ( you ) to make an informed and educated choice what remedial actions are required for this computer.

The suggestions have been put forth on a volunteer basis, in good faith and in the best interests of the computer.

What the user ( you ) chooses to do with that information is entirely up to them

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Answer 6

Spidla Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 9, 2024 2:07 AM in response to Owl-53

Well this is harsh, kind of Windows-like solution (reinstalling OS). I will keep it as the last resort. With Time Machine, this might not be as bad as I think though. Thank you.

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