Quick Answer
Mac Developer Mode is a hidden macOS setting that allows unsigned code to run without Gatekeeper prompts and enables deeper system inspection tools. You enable it via a single Terminal command, and it is designed for developers who need to test their own software on their Mac.
macOS protects users from potentially harmful software through Gatekeeper, which blocks apps that are not notarized by Apple. Developer Mode relaxes these restrictions so that developers can install, test, and debug their own builds without repeatedly approving each run in System Settings. Here is how to enable it and what each unlocked setting actually does.
What Mac Developer Mode Does
When Developer Mode is enabled, macOS allows locally built apps to run without the Gatekeeper approval prompt that normally appears when launching unsigned binaries. It also enables certain diagnostic tools and debugging APIs that are restricted by default for security reasons. Developer Mode does not disable System Integrity Protection - SIP remains active and protects core system directories. It is specifically targeted at the application-layer restrictions imposed by Gatekeeper and notarization requirements.
How to Enable Developer Mode via Terminal
Open Terminal from Applications > Utilities and run the following command: spctl developer-mode enable-terminal. You will be prompted to authenticate with your administrator password. After enabling, you may need to grant Terminal itself Full Disk Access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access for certain debugging workflows. To verify Developer Mode is active, run spctl developer-mode status - it should return developer mode: enabled.
Hidden Settings Unlocked by Developer Mode
With Developer Mode active, Xcode and third-party IDEs can attach debuggers to processes without additional approval prompts. The codesign and security command-line tools expose additional verification options. Instruments and the Simulator in Xcode gain the ability to profile and simulate apps that do not carry a valid provisioning profile. For web developers, Safari''s Develop menu - enabled separately in Safari Settings > Advanced - works in conjunction with Developer Mode to enable full Web Inspector access on connected devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is enabling Mac Developer Mode a security risk? A: Developer Mode relaxes Gatekeeper for your own builds but does not disable SIP or other core security layers. The risk is limited to running unsigned code you explicitly install, so it is safe for developers who understand what they are running.
Q: Can I enable Developer Mode without an Apple Developer account? A: Yes. Developer Mode is a local macOS setting and does not require a paid Apple Developer Program membership. It is available on any Mac running macOS Ventura or later.
Q: How do I disable Developer Mode if I no longer need it? A: Run spctl developer-mode disable-terminal in Terminal and authenticate. Gatekeeper returns to its default enforcement behavior immediately.
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