Allowing all permissions for Avast Security on macOS

After installing or upgrading Avast Security, Avast Premium Security, or Avast Omni on a Mac that is running macOS version 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher, you need to allow permissions so that your Avast product can fully protect your system. The Avast setup wizard guides you through this process. For detailed instructions, refer to the steps in this article.

Allow protection

Allowing permissions enables Avast to protect your Mac using the Core Shields real-time protection features.

1. In the Avast setup wizard, click Continue.
2. Click Open System Preferences.
3. Select the General tab in the Security & Privacy preferences window.
4. If your settings are locked, click the lock icon, then enter your Administrator Password and click Unlock.
5. Click Allow.
6. In the Avast setup wizard, click Continue.

The necessary permissions are granted. If you are using macOS 11 (Big Sur), the Avast setup wizard prompts you to add DNS proxy configurations. If you are using macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or lower, the Avast setup wizard prompts you to allow full disk access.

Add DNS proxy configurations

Adding a DNS proxy to your Mac enables Avast to actively monitor websites for threats while you browse the internet.

1. Click Open confirmation dialog.
2. Click Allow.
3. Click Continue.

The necessary DNS proxy configurations are added. Continue with the steps below to allow full disk access.

Allow full disk access

Allowing full disk access enables Avast to scan your entire Mac for hidden threats.

1. In the Avast setup wizard, click Open System Preferences.
2. Ensure the Privacy tab and Full Disk Access are selected.
3. If your settings are locked, click the lock icon, then enter your Administrator Password and click Unlock.
4. Select your Avast product using either method below:
   1. Tick the box next to your Avast product.
   2. Click the + icon, then select your Avast product, and click Open.
5. If prompted, click Quit Now.
6. Click Continue.
7. Click Got It.

Full Disk Access is granted for your Avast product. All necessary permissions are now enabled.

Further recommendations

For more information about the features available in your Avast product, refer to the relevant article below:

• Avast Security | Avast Premium Security | Avast Omni