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The Dropbox system extension is automatically installed when you install the Dropbox desktop app. It allows you to open online-only files from File Explorer (Windows), Finder (Mac), or third party applications.
Notes:
The Dropbox system extension is automatically installed when you install the Dropbox desktop app, but it can sometimes be blocked by some system permissions. If this occurs, follow the instructions below to manually install the Dropbox system extension:
Note: If you’re on a computer using an earlier operating system than macOS 11, you can update your system preferences to allow the blocked system extension. Learn how to update your system preferences.
To uninstall the system extension:
If you’re an admin for a Dropbox team account, you can uninstall the Dropbox system extension from your team’s computers. To do so:
After the system extension is uninstalled, team members will still be able to use the Dropbox folder in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac), but all of their online-only files will become available offline and the extension will be disabled for both their team account and any linked personal account they may have.
Note: Online-only files becoming available offline will result in files being downloaded directly to a team member’s computer.
Is the Dropbox system extension secure?
The Dropbox system extension is secure and only used for online-only file management. It’s similar to other drivers and system extensions you may need to install for hardware or software, like printers, hard drives, or desktop applications.
Learn more about how Dropbox keeps your files safe and secure.
How can I save hard drive space using Dropbox?
You can save hard drive space with Dropbox in multiple ways: