How to Disable Sip on Mac M1

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System Integrity Protection (SIP) is a security feature introduced in macOS El Capitan to prevent unauthorized access to system-level files, even by a user with administrative privileges. However, in some cases, you might need to disable SIP on your Mac to perform certain tasks like installing certain applications or making system-level changes. If you’ve recently upgraded to the new Mac M1, you’ll find that disabling SIP has changed. In this post, we’ll guide you through the different methods of disabling SIP on Mac M1.

Video Tutorial:

The Challenge of Disabling SIP on Mac M1

If you’ve previously disabled SIP on previous versions of Mac, you probably know how to do it via the Recovery Mode. But for Mac M1, the recovery mode method is different. Mac M1 has introduced the Apple Silicon Platform Security Process, which demands some additional steps to disable SIP.

Things You Should Prepare for

Before proceeding to the different methods of disabling SIP on Mac M1, it’s important to take note of the following things:

  • Make sure you’re logged in as an administrator on the system.
  • Ensure that you have a reliable and stable internet connection.
  • You need to have a good understanding of Terminal Commands, as we’ll be using the Terminal to execute commands to disable SIP on Mac M1.

Method 1: Using the Terminal and Recovery Assistant

This method involves using the Mac’s Recovery Assistant to disable SIP on your Mac M1. Here are the steps involved:

  1. First, restart your Mac and press and hold the power button to enter the boot menu.
  2. Choose Options, then click on Continue to open the Recovery Assistant.
  3. Now choose Utilities, and then click on Terminal from the dropdown list.
  4. Type the following command: csrutil authenticated-root disable and hit Enter.
  5. Now quit the Terminal and restart your Mac.

Pros:

  • This method is easier and quicker
  • You don’t need any external tools to execute this command.

Cons:

  • This method can’t be used if the use of third-party tools is not required.

Method 2: Using the MaiHack Utility

MaiHack utility is a third-party tool that enables you to manage the security options on Mac M1, including disabling SIP. This tool is only available for Mac M1 users. Here are the steps involved in disabling SIP using the MaiHack Utility:

  1. First, download MaiHack Utility from the developer’s website and install it on your Mac M1.
  2. Next, launch the MaiHack Utility and click on the lock icon to authenticate with admin privileges.
  3. Now click on the Security Options tab and slide the "Disable SIP" button to the right side.
  4. Finally, click on the "Apply" button to save your changes.

Pros:

  • This tool is specifically designed for Mac M1 users.
  • You don’t need to enter any Terminal Commands to disable SIP.

Cons:

  • There’s a possibility that installing third-party tools could introduce malware on your system.
  • If the MaiHack Utility becomes corrupted, you’ll need reinstall it.

Method 3: Using the Terminal on macOS Big Sur

This method also involves using the Terminal on macOS Big Sur, similar to using the Terminal and Recovery Assistant. Here are the steps involved:

  1. First, restart your Mac and log in as an administrator on the system.
  2. Next, launch Terminal from the Launchpad or Spotlight search bar.
  3. Type the following command: sudo mount -uw / and then hit Enter.
  4. Type the following command: killall Finder and hit Enter.
  5. Now type the following command to reboot your Mac in recovery mode: sudo nvram "recovery-boot-mode=unused" then hit Enter.
  6. Switch off your Mac and then switch it on by holding the power button until the Apple logo appears.
  7. Now press and hold the command and R keys to enter Recovery Mode.
  8. Next, choose Utilities, and then click on Terminal.
  9. Now type the following command: csrutil authenticated-root disable and hit enter.
  10. Lastly, reboot your Mac to use your new settings.

Pros:

  • This method is a sure way of disabling SIP.
  • It’s a recommended method for advanced users as it involves more Terminal commands.

Cons:

  • This method can be complicated for those not familiar with Terminal commands.
  • There’s a higher risk of making mistakes.

Why Can’t I Disable SIP on Mac M1?

Here are some of the reasons why you might not be able to disable SIP on your Mac M1 and their solutions:

Q1: I can’t see the "Disable System Integrity Protection" functionality on MaiHack, where can I go to fix this?

A: If you can’t see this functionality, you’ll need to update MaiHack Utility to the latest version to enable this feature.

Q2: I can’t type in terminal during startup

A: If you’re unable to type in terminal during startup, make sure you hold down the Command + R keys until you hear the chime, then release the keys.

Q3: Why recevied `csrutil: command not found` even after I enter `csrutil authenticated-root disable` in recovery mode?

A: Try running csrutil disable instead of csrutil authenticated-root disable in Terminal to disable SIP.

Q4: Why won’t the SIP be disabled when I execute ‘csrutil authenticated-root disable’ command in Terminal?

A: You might need to enable the boot system on Mac M1, as the slider to disable SIP might be grayed out. To fix this, go to Apple > System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General > click the lock icon to unlock the settings > click Advanced > select "allow booting from external media".

Additional Tips

It’s not recommended to leave SIP disabled once you’ve completed the task you needed it to be disabled for. SIP plays a significant role in keeping your system secure from malicious software. Additionally, be sure to verify the source of any third-party tool, as some tools can cause harm to your system or introduce malware that could compromise your system’s security.

5 FAQs about Disabling SIP on Mac M1

Q1: Is it necessary to disable SIP on Mac M1?

A: SIP is a vital security feature that offers necessary security protection that should not be disabled unless it is required for a specific task.

Q2: Does disabling SIP affect my Mac M1’s performance?

A: Disabling SIP has no effect on your Mac M1’s performance, but it could increase security risks if you do not turn it back on.

Q3: Can I disable SIP permanently on my Mac M1?

A: SIP is a crucial security feature that should always be kept on. It’s not recommended to turn it off permanently.

Q4: Will my device be more vulnerable after I disable SIP?

A: If you leave SIP disabled, this can leave your device more vulnerable to malware and security attacks.

Q5: Is it safe to use third-party apps that require disabling SIP?

A: Though it’s not always recommended, if you must use these apps, ensure that you know the exact tasks the app executes and what permissions it requires on the system.

In Conclusion

System Integrity Protection is an essential security feature that helps protect your system from malicious software. However, some tasks can require disabling SIP temporarily. We’ve outlined three different methods of disabling SIP on your Mac M1, and you can choose the one that best suits your situation. Remember, after completing your task requiring SIP to be disabled, enable it to maintain your system’s security.

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