What to download
Use the release package from the OpenCore Legacy Patcher project rather than random mirrors or modified copies. Newer OCLP versions distribute the app through release packages, and OCLP 2.3.0 and newer require the PKG installer for the privileged helper tool.
The latest stable release is 2.4.1. For most users, download OpenCore-Patcher.pkg. AutoPkg-Assets.pkg is pulled automatically when needed, and OpenCore-Patcher-Uninstaller.pkg removes the app utilities without reverting patches.
After downloading, keep the original release notes nearby. They are the best source for version-specific warnings, newly added macOS support, and hotfixes.
- Download OpenCore-Patcher.pkg from the latest stable release unless the release notes tell you to use a different version.
- Avoid modified copies that claim to be faster, unlocked, or prepatched.
- If you need another computer to download OCLP, move the installer to the target Mac with a USB drive.
Different names, same patcher
The same tool is often searched for with different spacing or shorthand. You may see people write OpenCore Legacy Patcher, Open Core Patcher, OpenCore Patcher app, OCLP, open legacy patcher, openlegacy patcher, or open core legacy patcher.
- Use this guide for OpenCore Legacy Patcher and the OCLP app workflow.
- Do not download a renamed copy just because it matches a search phrase.
- For Windows questions, read the Windows page; the OCLP app workflow itself is macOS-based.
Before opening the app
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Step 1
Back up your data
Use Time Machine or another full backup before bootloader changes, USB installer creation, or macOS upgrades.
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Step 2
Check the Mac model identifier
Open System Information and compare the Model Identifier with the compatibility guide.
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Step 3
Use a supported base OS for installer creation
The FAQ notes that El Capitan 10.11 is required to make Ventura installers, while High Sierra 10.13 is required to make Sonoma and newer installers.
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Step 4
Plan for post-install root patches
Older Macs may need graphics, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB, camera, Touch Bar, or other patches after macOS is installed.
Is there an OpenCore Legacy Patcher for Windows download?
The OCLP app workflow is for macOS. The Windows guide is about installing UEFI Windows on older Macs and making it appear in the OCLP boot picker, not about running the patcher app on Windows.