Suite Kernel Extensions (kexts) on macOS
Suite is designed to seamlessly integrate with your operating system, providing a user experience akin to using a local hard drive.
To achieve this level of integration, Suite installs a software component that runs in the kernel of your operating system. In the case of macOS, Suite utilizes a kernel extension called macFUSE.
MacFUSE acts as a bridge between Suite’s software and the underlying macOS kernel, allowing Suite to seamlessly integrate and gain direct interaction with the system. This integration mimics the functionality of a local hard drive, allowing you to access and manage your data effortlessly.
💡 MacFUSE was developed by Benjamin Fleischer therefore, his name appears in the dialog window.
Understanding Kernel Extensions (kexts)
Kernel extensions, or kexts, are software modules that expand the capabilities of the macOS kernel. When a kext is added to the system, it can work together with the kernel to introduce new services or features that were not initially included in the operating system. This enables the enhancement of macOS functionality without the need to directly modify the core kernel itself.
Apple's M1 chip, also labeled as Apple Silicon brought about tighter restrictions for kernel extensions. Being deactivated by default on these recent devices, users are able to activate them through manual configuration in the macOS Recovery space which involves booting into recovery mode and selecting the “Reduced Security” option. Despite the “Reduced security” notice, this is actually more about system stability and reliability, but not the system’s security.
The term "Reduced security" however is very misleading.
Even though it's termed as "Reduced security," kexts don't compromise a system's security.
Any kext can only be incorporated into the operating system if it has received Apple's endorsement and signature. Running any random code as a kext isn't feasible.
Suite Storage employs a kext known as macFUSE. This kext has been rigorously tested for over a decade and a half, showing exceptional reliability.
Activating kernel extensions merely aligns the system with standards found in any x86-based (for instance, Intel) Mac system.
💡 Ready to install Suite? Please reference our M1/M2/M3 Installation Guide
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