Which macOS feature helps protect against malware and unauthorized access?

Gatekeeper is an essential security feature in macOS designed to protect users from malware and unauthorized applications. It ensures that only software from trusted sources, such as the Mac App Store or identified developers, can be installed and run on the system. When a user attempts to open an application that is not from a recognized developer, Gatekeeper prompts them with a warning, helping to prevent the installation of potentially harmful software.

In addition to Gatekeeper, other features like the Firewall, System Integrity Protection, and FileVault play important roles in the overall security strategy of macOS. The Firewall controls incoming connections to the computer to help prevent unauthorized access, while System Integrity Protection protects critical system files and processes from being modified. FileVault, on the other hand, focuses on encrypting the entire disk to safeguard data if the device is lost or stolen. Each of these features contributes to enhancing security, but Gatekeeper specifically targets the risks associated with software installations and execution from unverified sources, making it a pivotal defense against malware.