What is security.authhost?

security.authhost is the process behind the password prompts macOS shows when something needs permission to change system settings.

What is security.authhost?

It is the authorisation host. It shows and manages the dialogue box you see when an app or system process needs higher privileges. It is the process behind the "macOS wants to make changes" prompt with the padlock icon.

When does it appear?

You see its work when:

• You install software and macOS asks for your password
• You change a locked setting in System Settings
• An app asks for administrator privileges
• You click the lock icon to unlock a settings pane
• A system process needs your approval to continue

How does it work?

When an app needs higher privileges, it sends a request through the macOS authorisation system. security.authhost receives the request, shows the password prompt, checks your password or Touch ID, and grants or refuses the request.

The app itself never sees your password. security.authhost checks the password on its own.

Does it use many resources?

No. It only runs while a prompt is on screen. Once you approve or refuse the request, it goes back to waiting.

Should you worry?

No. It is a core macOS security process. If you see a prompt you did not expect, look at what is asking for access. But the prompt itself is macOS protecting you by asking before it allows changes.

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