kextunload MacOS Command Guide
The MacOS kextunload command is used to unload kernel extensions on a Mac system. Kernel extensions are pieces of code that enhance the operating system’s functionality and help it communicate with hardware devices. With kextunload, users can unload these extensions when they are no longer needed, freeing up system resources and potentially resolving conflicts. This command can be particularly useful when troubleshooting issues related to hardware devices and drivers. By unloading specific kernel extensions, users can isolate problematic components and streamline the system’s operation. It is important to note that using the kextunload command requires administrative privileges and should be done with caution to avoid disrupting system stability.
kextunload Syntax:
Section titled “kextunload Syntax:”kextunload [-b bundle_id] [-v] [-V] [-c bundle_id] [-t] [-q] [-b bundle_id [-v[v] [-t] [-q]]] [-h] [bundle_id ...]Options:
Section titled “Options:”| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -b bundle_id | Specifies the bundle ID of the kext to be unloaded |
| -v | Verbose output, display progress |
| -V | Very verbose output, display even more information |
| -c bundle_id | Unload the bundle specified and its dependents if possible |
| -t | Test the kexts (unload will not occur) |
| -q | Quiet, print only errors and warnings |
| -h | Display usage help |
Parameters:
Section titled “Parameters:”| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| bundle_id | One or more kext bundle IDs to be unloaded |
kextunload Command Samples:
Section titled “kextunload Command Samples:”Unload a Kernel Extension by Bundle ID
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension by Bundle ID”sudo kextunload -b com.apple.driver.AppleHDAControllerUnloads the kernel extension with the specified bundle ID “com.apple.driver.AppleHDAController”.
Unload a Kernel Extension by Kext Path
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension by Kext Path”sudo kextunload /Library/Extensions/Example.kextUnloads the kernel extension located at the specified path “/Library/Extensions/Example.kext”.
Unload Multiple Kernel Extensions
Section titled “Unload Multiple Kernel Extensions”sudo kextunload -b com.test.kext1 -b com.test.kext2Unloads multiple kernel extensions using their respective bundle IDs.
Unload a Kernel Extension and Verbose Output
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension and Verbose Output”sudo kextunload -v 3 -b com.test.kextUnloads the kernel extension and provides verbose output at the specified verbosity level.
Unload a Kernel Extension with Force Option
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension with Force Option”sudo kextunload -f /System/Library/Extensions/Example.kextForces the unloading of the kernel extension located at the specified path.
Unload a Kernel Extension by Matching Identifier
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension by Matching Identifier”sudo kextunload -b com.test.*.kextUnloads kernel extensions matching the specified bundle identifier pattern.
Unload a Kernel Extension Quietly
Section titled “Unload a Kernel Extension Quietly”sudo kextunload -q /Path/To/Example.kextUnloads the kernel extension quietly without displaying any output.
kextunload FAQ:
Section titled “kextunload FAQ:”How do I use kextunload in MacOS?
Section titled “How do I use kextunload in MacOS?”To use the kextunload command in MacOS, execute the following command:
kextunload --bundle-id com.example.kextWhat is the purpose of kextunload in MacOS?
Section titled “What is the purpose of kextunload in MacOS?”The kextunload command in MacOS is used to unload kernel extensions (kexts) from the running kernel.
Can I unload multiple kernel extensions at once with kextunload?
Section titled “Can I unload multiple kernel extensions at once with kextunload?”Yes, you can unload multiple kernel extensions at once by specifying multiple bundle identifiers in the kextunload command.
kextunload -b com.example.kext1 -b com.example.kext2How can I force unload a kernel extension using kextunload?
Section titled “How can I force unload a kernel extension using kextunload?”To force unload a kernel extension with kextunload, use the ‘-f’ flag in the command.
kextunload -f --bundle-id com.example.kextIs it possible to display verbose information while unloading a kernel extension with kextunload?
Section titled “Is it possible to display verbose information while unloading a kernel extension with kextunload?”Yes, you can use the ‘-v’ flag to display verbose information while unloading a kernel extension.
kextunload -v --bundle-id com.example.kextWhat should I be cautious about when using kextunload in MacOS?
Section titled “What should I be cautious about when using kextunload in MacOS?”When using kextunload, be cautious about unloading critical kernel extensions that are necessary for system stability. Improper unloading of essential extensions can lead to system instability or crashes.
Applications of the kextunload command
Section titled “Applications of the kextunload command”- Unload a currently loaded kernel extension
- Troubleshoot issues related to a specific kernel extension
- Prepare for updating or replacing a kernel extension
- Disable a problematic kernel extension temporarily