How to Add and Remove Kexts from macOS: Ultimate Guide

Understanding Kexts in macOS

Kexts, or kernel extensions, are files that expand the basic functionality of macOS’s Darwin kernel, allowing the kernel to communicate with your computer’s hardware. However, managing kexts can be complex, especially with recent versions of macOS.

Where Are Kexts Found?

Kexts are typically located in two directories on your Mac:

• System/Library/Extensions: This is the primary home for kexts.
• /Library/Extensions: Some kexts may also be found here, although this is less common.

You can recognize kext files by their .kext extension and their plugin-style icon.

How to Add Kexts

Adding kexts to macOS involves a few steps, especially considering the restrictions in newer versions of the operating system.

1. Download the Kext: Ensure you download the kext from a trusted source.
2. Move the Kext: Place the kext file in one of the designated directories. For third-party kexts, it is generally recommended to use /Library/Extensions to avoid conflicts with system files.
3. Authorize the Kext: In newer versions of macOS, you may need to authorize the kext through System Preferences > Privacy & Security. This step is crucial as it ensures the kext is allowed to run.
4. Restart Your Mac: After moving the kext to the correct directory and authorizing it, restart your Mac to ensure the kext is loaded.

How to Remove Kexts

Removing kexts can be more challenging, especially in newer versions of macOS due to increased security measures.

Using Terminal Commands

1. Unload the Kext:

   • Open Terminal and enter the following command to unload the kext:

     sudo kextunload /System/Library/Extensions/kext.kext
     

   • Replace kext.kext with the name of the kext you want to remove. For example:

     sudo kextunload /System/Library/Extensions/AppleMobileDevice.kext
     

   • Enter your administrator password and press Enter.

2. Force-Delete the Kext:

   • If unloading the kext fails, you can force-delete it using the following Terminal command:

     sudo rm -rf /System/Library/Extensions/kext.kext
     

   • Replace kext.kext with the name of the kext you want to remove. For example:

     sudo rm -rf /System/Library/Extensions/AppleIntelE1000e.kext
     

   • Enter your admin password and press Enter. Then, restart your computer.

Important Considerations

• System Integrity Protection (SIP): In newer versions of macOS, SIP (System Integrity Protection) prevents modifications to system files. To remove system kexts, you may need to disable SIP in Recovery Mode, but this is not recommended as it can cause issues with system updates and security.
• APFS Read-Only Volume: If you are using APFS (Apple File System), the system volume is read-only, making it impossible to delete system kexts directly.

Blocking Kexts Instead of Removing

If you cannot remove a kext due to system restrictions, you can block it from loading. This is particularly useful if you need to upgrade a kext but are blocked by the existing version.

1. Use OpenCore: For advanced users, using OpenCore can help block specific kexts from loading. This method is more complex and typically used in Hackintosh setups.
2. Other Methods: Depending on your specific situation, you might need to explore other methods such as modifying the kext's configuration files or using third-party tools designed for managing kexts.

Common Issues and Solutions

• Authorization Issues: If you authorized a kext but now want to remove it, ensure you have revoked the authorization in System Preferences > Privacy & Security before attempting to remove the kext.
• System-Critical Kexts: Be cautious when removing kexts, as removing a system-critical kext can cause major problems. Always ensure you have identified the correct kext before attempting to remove it.

By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively manage kexts on your Mac, even with the increased security measures in newer versions of macOS.