The Device Config Generator creates config files that can be added to most Mac devices. Config Files can restrict features in a way that's not possible to bypass without unlocking your Tech Lockdown profile.
Device Config Files must be manually installed whenever there are new changes that need to be added. If you've made a change to your config file, reinstall the new config file to replace the one currently installed on your Mac.
These steps apply both if you're syncing the Config File or installing it for the first time.
Step 1: Download Config Files onto Your Mac
- You can download the config file from the Device Config Generator by clicking the Sync to Device button.
- You will be prompted to download the Config File to your Mac.
Once the Config File has been downloaded, you should see it listed in your downloads folder.
If you've downloaded the Config File from the Tech Lockdown dashboard, the default location you'll find the file is under the Downloads folder.
Step 2: Load the Config File
Once a config file is downloaded onto your Mac, you'll need to load it so that System Settings recognizes that you're trying to install it.
Double-click the Config File to load it. You should see a message like this:
Click OK to dismiss the notification
Step 3: Install the Config File onto Your Mac
Once the Config File is staged, you can now install it.
- Open your Mac's System Settings.
You should see a notification in the sidebar that says Profile Downloaded, like this. You can also search System Settings for "profile" to access the same menu:
The Config File should have your Tech Lockdown email in the title.
- Double-click the Config File to start installing it.
You can review all settings before installing. When you're ready, click on the Install button:
- Click the install button. Confirm installation and enter your Mac's password if prompted.
The Config File should now be installed onto your computer.
Step 4: Refresh your Browsers or restart your Mac
Even after the Device Config is installed on your Mac, you might not notice changes without a refresh.
For most browser-related changes, open the policy page associated with your browser:
- Brave: brave://policy/
- Chrome: chrome://policy/
- Edge: edge://policy/
- Firefox: about:policies
Reload policies like this:
For changes that affect System Settings or features on your Mac, completely restart your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
I see an error message when installing my config file.
If you see an error message in system settings like this:
This usually means that you're trying to install an empty Config File with no options selected. At least one option must be selected to install the Config File.
How do I get help removing Config Files on my Mac?
See Uninstalling Device Config on Mac for more information.