# Approve CubbyPad’s first open in macOS

If macOS cannot verify CubbyPad, use Privacy & Security to approve the official downloaded copy once.

Last updated 26 October 2026

## Follow these steps

1. Download CubbyPad from its own Download page and move it to Applications.

1. Open it and dismiss the verification message with Done.

1. Open System Settings › Privacy & Security and find the CubbyPad message.

1. Choose Open Anyway and confirm the first open.

## What to expect

macOS permits that app copy to open, after which CubbyPad can show its activation screen. Approval is separate from purchasing or activating a license.

Only approve the copy obtained through CubbyPad’s official download link. A routine signed update normally uses the app’s update mechanism rather than requiring this same initial approval sequence.

## If the result is different

If the named app or download source is different, stop and check the file you received. If the expected entry is absent, try opening the Applications copy once and inspect Privacy & Security again. Send support the exact message instead of disabling system protection globally.

For the broader walkthrough, read [install cubbypad on your mac](https://cubbypad.com/guides/install/).

## Related answers.

[### Start CubbyPad automatically at login

Enable Open at login in Settings › General to keep the launcher ready after signing in to your Mac.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/open-at-login/)[### Fix a CubbyPad login item that needs approval

CubbyPad can direct you to macOS Login Items when the system needs approval before starting it automatically.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/login-item-needs-approval/)[### Show or hide CubbyPad’s Dock icon

The Dock toggle in Settings › General controls CubbyPad’s own Dock icon, separate from the apps inside its grid.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/show-dock-icon/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/help/first-open-approval/