What are system extensions?

System extensions are sandboxed applications designed to enhance or extend the functionality of the operating system without needing to operate at the kernel level. They are part of a broader initiative to improve security by isolating these extensions from the core operating system. This sandboxing ensures that the extensions run in a restricted environment, allowing them to perform necessary tasks while minimizing the risk of potential system instability or security vulnerabilities.

The focus on using system extensions rather than kernel-level drivers highlights a shift towards more secure application architectures. System extensions can interact with system services but do so through well-defined interfaces, ensuring tighter control over what actions can be performed and limiting access to system resources. This design not only promotes better stability but also allows for easier updates and management of these extensions.

In contrast, other options generally refer to different types of software or access levels. For example, applications requiring root access are not specifically sandboxed and can pose security risks. Legacy system applications refer to older software that may not comply with modern standards for security and performance. Finally, kernel-level drivers operate at the highest privilege level, which can lead to issues if not carefully designed and managed. This distinction emphasizes why system extensions, especially in the context of modern security practices, are essential for extending functionality in a controlled manner