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How to Enable and Use Safari Extensions on macOS Big Sur
Edited 8 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
macOSSafariExtensionsWeb BrowserFeaturesInternetAppleCustomizationPluginsMac
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Safari, the default web browser on macOS, is known for its simplicity and fast performance. With the release of macOS Big Sur, Safari has become even more powerful with new features and enhancements. One of these exceptional features is the ability to add extensions, which extend Safari's capabilities to meet your specific needs.
Safari extensions are small applications you can add to Safari to improve the way you browse the web. They can help you block ads, manage passwords, or collect information about websites while you browse. Apple's implementation aims for better security, seamless integration, and improved user experience. This comprehensive guide discusses how to effectively enable and use Safari extensions on macOS Big Sur.
Understanding Safari extensions
Before enabling and using extensions, it's important to understand what they are. Safari extensions are just like mini-apps. They extend the functionality of your browser, allowing you to customize web browsing based on your preferences. Extensions can do the following:
- Block ads and pop-ups
- Raising privacy settings
- Online expense tracking
- Enabling social sharing tools
Developers can create custom extensions using the Safari Extensions API, giving users a broad range of functionality while keeping security a top priority.
Enabling Safari extensions
To take advantage of Safari extensions in macOS Big Sur, you must first enable them. The process is simple, but involves several steps to ensure security and proper functioning. Here are the steps to enable extensions:
Step 1: Open Safari preferences
To get started, launch Safari from your Applications folder or Dock. Once it opens, click "Safari" located in the top menu bar, and then select "Preferences." This action opens a new window with several tabs for various setting options.
Step 2: Go to the Extensions tab
In the Preferences window, you'll find a tab called "Extensions." Click on it to access all the settings related to your Safari extensions. This section provides a summary of all the extensions you have installed, allowing you to easily enable or disable them.
Step 3: Browse extensions
If you haven't installed any extensions yet, the list will be empty. To access Safari's collection of extensions, click the "More extensions..." button. This link takes you to the Mac App Store, where you can browse a wide range of available extensions under different categories such as productivity, security, and entertainment.
Step 4: Installing the extension
In the Mac App Store, you can browse and search for extensions. Once you find the extension you want to add, click the "Get" button and then click "Install." You may be asked to enter your Apple ID and password to confirm the installation.
Using Safari extensions
Once you have installed the extensions you want, it's time to activate them and explore their functionalities. Here's how to do it:
Step 5: Activate the extension
Return to the Safari "Extensions" tab in the Preferences window. Here, find the name of the newly installed extension in the list. To activate it, click the checkbox next to the extension's name. Some extensions may require additional permissions or configurations that you need to allow for them to work correctly.
Step 6: Discover the extension features
Some extensions add a new button or feature directly to the Safari toolbar. You can click these buttons to find out what each extension offers. Additionally, some extensions may have preferences or settings that you can customize. These can usually be accessed by right-clicking the extension icon in the toolbar or by going to the extension's settings in the Safari Preferences window.
Manage Safari extensions
As you continue to use extensions, you may feel the need to manage them – such as updating, disabling, or uninstalling extensions you no longer need. Here's how you can manage your extensions effectively:
Step 7: Updating the extension
Extensions are usually updated automatically through the Mac App Store when updates are available. Check the "Updates" section in the Mac App Store regularly to make sure your extensions are up to date.
Step 8: Disable or uninstall extensions
To disable an extension, return to the "Extensions" tab in Safari Preferences, and uncheck the box next to the extension's name. If you want to completely uninstall an extension, click on the extension and select the "Uninstall" button at the bottom of the window. This action will completely remove the extension from Safari.
Safari extensions & privacy
Privacy is a significant concern in today's digital world, and Apple aims to make Safari extensions as secure as possible. Here's what you should know about extensions and privacy:
- The extension needs to ask for permission to access data on the websites you visit. You can control what information you share by going to the extension's settings.
- Safari extensions are isolated from the rest of your system, which means they have limited access to your Mac's data.
- Extensions that no longer meet Apple's security requirements will be removed from the Mac App Store.
This privacy-focused approach ensures that using Safari extensions on macOS Big Sur won’t compromise your security.
Considerations and best practices
To get the most out of Safari extensions, consider the following best practices:
- Only install extensions from trusted sources: Use the Mac App Store to download extensions to avoid potential security risks.
- Review permission requests: Always pay attention to the permissions requested by an extension, and only grant access if absolutely necessary.
- Update your extensions regularly: Keep your extensions and macOS up to date to take advantage of the latest features and security enhancements.
- Minimal usage: Install and activate only the extensions you really need to improve browser performance.
Examples of useful Safari extensions
With the variety of extensions available, here are some examples of ones that can improve your browsing experience:
- 1Password: A password manager that integrates directly with Safari, helping you securely manage login credentials.
- Adblock Plus: An ad blocker that prevents annoying ads from appearing on your web pages.
- Grammarly: It provides grammar and spell checking tools directly in Safari as you type.
- Pocket: This lets you save articles and videos to read or watch later, which can be accessed through your Pocket account.
Each of these extensions can provide exceptional features that make your web browsing experience more productive and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Safari extensions make a remarkable difference in the way you interact with the web. With the ability to boost productivity, keep your browsing secure, and add personalized features, these small applications can significantly change your online experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily enable, use, and manage Safari extensions on macOS Big Sur. Always remember to ensure the integrity and reliability of the extensions you install and keep your browsing activities secure. As you explore the world of Safari extensions, you will find countless ways to empower your browsing experience by customizing Safari according to your unique needs.
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