KextViewr
KextViewr is a macOS security utility that shows loaded kernel extensions and their details in a simple graphical view.
What is KextViewr?
KextViewr is a native macOS security utility for viewing the kernel extensions currently loaded on a Mac. It helps users inspect low-level components that extend the operating system, which is useful when troubleshooting drivers, auditing third-party software, or checking what loads into the kernel at startup. The app presents each loaded module with details such as its name, bundle ID, path, memory information, and architecture, and it can filter the list to focus on third-party items. On newer versions of macOS, it also reflects Apple's kernel collection model rather than only traditional standalone kext files. KextViewr is published by Objective-See, LLC and is primarily aimed at security-conscious users, administrators, and advanced Mac users who want a clearer view of kernel-level software.
Key features
- View all currently loaded kernel extensions in a graphical list
- Filter results to focus on third-party kernel modules
- See bundle IDs, paths, and other identifying details for each module
- Check memory address, size, collection, and architecture information
- Distinguish Apple components from third-party items at a glance
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
KextViewr is a legitimate macOS security tool whose behavior matches its purpose: it reads and displays information about loaded kernel extensions. Because it is designed to inspect low-level system components, users should expect it to access system information that ordinary apps do not typically show, but that access is consistent with a security auditing utility. Keep it only if you use it for troubleshooting, driver review, or system inspection.
Recommendation: Keep KextViewr if you use it to inspect kernel extensions, investigate driver issues, or audit third-party system software. If you no longer need those checks, removing it should only take away the app's inspection features and should not affect normal macOS use.
Common paths
/Applications/KextViewr.app
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