macOS · Privacy & Security
Grant apps unrestricted file system access
Authorize specific apps, usually backup, security, or automation tools, to read protected locations across your entire disk that are normally off-limits.
How to open Full Disk Access
- Open System Settings
- Select Privacy & Security, then Full Disk Access
- Click the plus button and select the app
- Enable the toggle next to the app and restart it if prompted
What you should know
- Located under Privacy & Security → Full Disk Access
- Required by many backup, antivirus, and file-sync utilities
- Grants access to Mail, Messages, Safari data, and Time Machine backups
- Apps must be manually added or removed from the list
Why it matters
Full Disk Access is one of the most powerful permissions on macOS because it bypasses the normal per-folder protections covering Mail, Messages, and other sensitive data stores. Utilities like backup software or terminal-based tools genuinely need it to function correctly, but granting it carelessly to unfamiliar apps creates significant privacy risk. Because it's granted per app rather than system-wide, users retain precise control over exactly which tools can see everything.
Best practices
- Only grant Full Disk Access to apps you trust and that clearly require it
- Remove access for apps you've uninstalled but that remain in the list
- Re-authorize the app if it stops working after a macOS update, as permissions can reset
Common problems and fixes
- A backup or sync tool can't access certain files
- Add the app to Full Disk Access and restart it.
- Terminal-based scripts can't read protected folders
- Add Terminal (or the specific shell/app) to Full Disk Access.
- App stops working after a macOS update
- Re-grant Full Disk Access, since major updates sometimes reset the permission.
Tips and tricks
- Use the search field at the top of Privacy & Security to jump straight to Full Disk Access
- Drag an app directly into the list instead of using the Add button if it's easier
Frequently asked questions
Is Full Disk Access the same as admin access?
No, it's a distinct macOS privacy permission unrelated to account admin status.
Can I grant Full Disk Access temporarily?
There's no built-in expiration; you must manually toggle it off when no longer needed.
Related settings
- App PermissionsBeyond camera and microphone, macOS tracks separate permissions for things like Full Disk Access, Files & Folders, Automation, Accessibility, and Local Network — each controlling exactly what a specific app is allowed to see or control on your Mac.
- Privacy & SecurityThe Privacy & Security settings pane is the central hub for controlling app permissions, FileVault encryption, Gatekeeper protections, Lockdown Mode, and analytics sharing — essentially every major security and data-access decision on your Mac in one place.
More Privacy & Security guides for macOS
- FileVault Disk EncryptionFileVault encrypts the entire startup disk on your Mac, so your data stays protected even if the device is lost or stolen. Only someone with your password or recovery key can unlock and read the disk.
- Camera & Microphone PrivacyPrivacy & Security settings let you review and control exactly which apps are allowed to use your Mac's camera and microphone, so you always know what has access to audio and video.
- Activation Lock (Find My Mac)Activation Lock automatically protects your Mac the moment Find My Mac is turned on, requiring your Apple Account password or device passcode before anyone can turn off Find My, erase the Mac, or reactivate it after an erase — making a lost or stolen Mac far less useful to whoever has it.
- Location ServicesManage system-wide Location Services and grant or deny individual apps and system features permission to use your Mac's estimated location.
- Screen Recording PermissionControl which apps are allowed to record or capture the contents of your screen, a permission required by screen-sharing, recording, and streaming tools.
- Apple AdvertisingTurn Personalized Ads on or off to control whether Apple uses your activity within its own apps, like the App Store and News, to show more relevant advertising.