An app asks to accept incoming network connections on your Mac

Why it happens

Your Mac's firewall asks before an app can receive connections from other devices, like a game server, a file share or a video call. If you clicked Deny, or the app isn't in the firewall's list, it stays blocked. The question can come back for some apps after they're updated or reinstalled.

How to fix it

1. Open System Settings, click Network in the sidebar, then click Firewall.

   Network›Firewall

2. Check that the Firewall switch is on. If it's off, the firewall isn't what's blocking your app, so skip to the next section.

3. Click Options… to see the list of apps. Find yours and choose Allow incoming connections next to it. If it isn't there, click the add button (+), pick the app from Applications and add it. Only do this for apps you trust.

   Network›Firewall›Options…

4. In the same window, make sure Block all incoming connections is off. While it's on, every app is blocked, whatever the list says.

   Network›Firewall›Options…

5. Click OK (type your password if asked), then quit the app with Command-Q and open it again.

Still not fixed?

1. If the pop-up keeps coming back, click Allow when it appears, then open Options… and check that the app still says Allow incoming connections. If it keeps changing, select the app in the list, remove it with the minus button (−) and add it again.

   Network›Firewall›Options…

2. If the firewall is off and the app still can't be reached, the block is somewhere else. Often it's your router or the other device's own firewall, and the app's help pages usually list what it needs.

3. On a work or school Mac, firewall settings may be locked. Ask whoever manages the Mac to allow the app.

4. If you can't change the firewall settings on your own Mac, or they go back after every restart, contact Apple Support.