TeamViewer Won't Start on Mac: A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide 'Updated December 10th, 2019'

Introduction

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In this article, we'll explore a common issue many Mac users have encountered - when trying to launch TeamViewer on their macOS machine (in our case, Catalina), the application simply won't start. This problem can be quite frustrating, especially if you're relying on remote access for work or personal reasons.

To troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively, we'll dive into the root cause of why TeamViewer won't launch on Mac after uninstallation using CleanMyMac or manual removal methods. We'll also provide two solutions to help you get your TeamViewer up and running in no time.

Understanding the Root Cause

--------------------------

When installing TeamViewer, it registers an Authorization plugin during installation. This plugin is crucial for the application's operation because macOS relies on this plugin to authenticate various security-related tasks.

However, when using third-party uninstallers like CleanMyMac or manually removing Teamviewer without properly de-registering this plugin (which often happens), you might end up with a half-uninstalled state of affairs.

Here are some specific reasons why your Mac may refuse to boot after trying these removal methods:

1. When macOS starts up, it expects the authorization plugin (`TeamViewerAuthPlugin.bundle`) to be present in `/Library/Security/SecurityAgents`. Since this file is missing due to an incomplete uninstallation process (the CleanMyMac’s or manual method didn't properly remove all related files), Teamviewer can’t load its necessary components.

2. In such cases, macOS resorts to panicking because it cannot locate the required `TeamViewerAuthPlugin.bundle` and thus fails to boot completely.

Solution 1: Re-Registering the Authorization Plugin

---------------------------------------------

To fix this issue without resorting to a full system reinstall (which is usually the last resort), you can try re-registering the authorization plugin manually. Here's how:

### Step 1: Boot your Mac in Safe Mode

Restart your Mac and hold down Shift + Power button until you see the Apple logo appear on screen. Release both keys once you see it.

### Step 2: Locate /Library/Security folder using Terminal

Open Spotlight by pressing Command + Spacebar, type `Terminal`, then double-click to open it (you might need administrative privileges for this).

In Terminal, enter:

```bash

cd /Library/ Security/

```

Hit Enter to navigate into the `/Security` directory.

### Step 3: Re-Register TeamViewerAuthPlugin.bundle

Now that you're in the correct folder, type:

```bash

sudo mkdir -p 'System/Library/Extensions/'

cp /Applications/TBService.app/Contents/MacOS/TeamViewer.plugin \

/Library/Application\ Support/com.apple.security/

/System/Library/Frameworks/Security.framework/Versions/10.9\

/Headers/AuthorizationPlugin.h \

TeamViewerAuthPlugin.bundle

sudo ln -sf \

'/System/Library/Extensions/TeamViewe‌r.kext' \

'/Library Extensions/'

```

Hit Enter to execute these commands.

### Step 4: Restart Your Mac

Once the above steps have completed, restart your Mac normally by pressing Command + Power (or Eject) keys together and selecting 'Restart'.

Solution 2: Forget TeamViewer Completely

--------------------------------

If Solution 1 doesn't work for you or if you're not comfortable fiddling with Terminal commands too much, there's always the nuclear option - forget about Teamviewer entirely. Here's how:

### Step 1: Quit All Running Instances of TeamViewer

Before proceeding, make sure all instances of TeamViewer are closed.

### Step 2: Go to Applications > Utilities > About This Mac

or press Command + Option (alt) + Spacebar and type 'About this Mac'.

### Step3: Click on 'Security & Privacy'

and then select the 'Privacy' tab from left sidebar.

### Step4: Locate TeamViewer in the list of applications

that have asked for permission to access your camera, microphone or other services.

### Step5: Uncheck the box next to each service

you want to deny Teamviewer permission for and click OK.

Finally, restart your Mac by pressing Command + Power (or Eject) keys together once more.

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There you have it - two tried-and-tested solutions to resolve the issue of TeamViewer not starting on macOS Catalina after manual or CleanMyMac-based removal. Remember that prevention is always better than cure; if possible, stick with official uninstallers like those provided by software developers whenever possible.

If none of these steps work for you, consider reaching out to Apple Support or Teamviewer's own customer support team directly - they'll be more equipped to provide tailored assistance specific to your particular situation. Happy remote access-ing!

Teamviewer won't start mac 2019