How to install apps on Mac

Installing apps on Mac is different from the procedures followed for other devices. When new users switch on their Mac for the very first time, they cannot get what to do with it. They use app store for primary downloads although there are many files present in various formats. Publishers provide the guidelines and additional notes for the installation and usage purposes.

Whenever the file is installed it is saved to the desktop if no folder is specified. There is no need to use the finder for the proper installation. Simply drag and drop the file to the applications folder. Application is seen in the normal finder window where the installation can be processed and completed. The installed app can be run either by direct clicking or it can be dragged to the application dock before starting. The image left on the desktop do not cause any harm to the computer whereas it should be removed because it looks unnecessary. It can be dragged to the trash or the eject command can be used by right clicking the icon.       

Handling different formats

The files installed from the store are very simple to handle. They can be downloaded directly by providing the user name and password. They are launched through the launch pad and used by double clicking.

The .DMG format is very general to handle. The app once downloaded to the desktop it can be used by simply dragging the app to the application folder. However many of the apps are present in different formats and are not easy to open by the same process. Package or .PKG files are executable ones and require proper opening and installation. There are certain things mentioned in the notes of the apps about installation and start up so they should be read carefully. 

Sometimes the partition is suggested by the publisher and carelessness makes the file corrupt or not properly downloaded. After double clicking the app user is asked to select the target folder. Selecting the external hard drive sometimes creates big hassle whereas using extra partition works. By the end the screen asks to launch the app or not. It is added to the dock automatically.

The files are sometimes compressed in the zip. It is quite confusing for those who do not know about it. However the zip folder contains the file in different formats they can be executed by double clicking the zip and installation steps can be followed according to the format present inside.

Gate Keeper Feature

The Mac OS X contains gate keeper feature whether to protect system from malicious software or to push user to purchase even minor apps. It restricts every download from non recognized authorities. The downloading from unidentified publishers can be controlled through the settings. The application can be run by right clicking the icon after complete download. First time when the app is clicked warnings appear from the system. It can be avoided by changing the preferences from the security and privacy icon.