.dmg in download file in finder

#1 - What is a .dmg file? In Finder/Downloads, I find a .dmg file. How do I determine what this file is and whether or not it is malicious. The file is 4MB and is identified as a Disk Image. Mac OS Monterey.


Can anyone help? Thanks.

MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 12.5

Posted on Sep 12, 2022 03:22 PM

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Posted on Sep 12, 2022 04:06 PM

A dmg file is a Disk Image file used for downloading updates to apps. You open them by double clicking on them and follow the instructions in the next window.


Often it will be the updated application itself just needing to be dragged to the Applications folder. Other times it may be an installer package which needs your approval, i.e. admin password, to run.


In either case make sure it's an app or file that you want.






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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 12, 2022 04:06 PM in response to janeymay125

A dmg file is a Disk Image file used for downloading updates to apps. You open them by double clicking on them and follow the instructions in the next window.


Often it will be the updated application itself just needing to be dragged to the Applications folder. Other times it may be an installer package which needs your approval, i.e. admin password, to run.


In either case make sure it's an app or file that you want.






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.dmg in download file in finder

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