How to restrict app installations and deploy approved applications on Mac and Windows using Hexnode?Solved

Participant
Discussion
15 hours ago May 31, 2026

We need to deploy important applications to our Mac and Windows devices. If a user tries to set up any other application, it must require admin approval before proceeding.Can it be done through Hexnode for macOS and Windows platform? 

 

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Marked SolutionPending Review
Hexnode Expert
1 hour ago May 31, 2026
Marked SolutionPending Review

Thanks for raising this question. 

While Hexnode doesn’t have an interactive “request approval” button for users, you can partially achieve this control using two main featuresApp Catalogs and Blocklists/Allowlists. 

Step 1: Deploy Approved Apps via App Catalog 

This creates a self-service portal where users can install admin-approved apps. 

  1. Go to Policies -> Create a new policy -> Select your platform (macOS or Windows). 

  1. Under App Management, click App Catalog and select your approved apps. 

  1. Save and deploy the policy to the devices. 

Step 2: Restrict Unapproved Apps (Allowlist / Blocklist) 
 

To ensure users cannot install unapproved apps without your consent, enforce application restrictions: 
 

  1. In your policy under App Management, select Blocklist/Allowlist. 

  1. To block everything except approved apps: Choose Allowlist and add only your approved applications. Any other app the user tries to install will be blocked. 

  1. To block specific apps: Choose Blocklist and add the specific applications you want to restrict. 

 

If you have any more queries, do let us know! 

Regards, 
Mary Romero 

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