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KEXT vs DEXT
On macOS, Apogee Symphony Thunderbolt systems now use a DEXT (Device Extension) driver in place of the older KEXT (Kernel Extension). Here's what changed and what it means for you.
Apple is requiring developers to move from KEXT (Kernel Extension) to DEXT (Device Extension) at some time in the future with a macOS update.
Currently, both are supported. At some point Apple will remove KEXT support in a macOS upgrade.
Here's what makes KEXT and DEXT different:
A KEXT lives in the System space, which can leave your Mac open to system crashes or kernel panics if the driver has a problem.
A DEXT lives in user space, isolated from the system, so a driver error can't force your Mac to crash or reboot unexpectedly.
What this means for you:
Installation is easier. On Apple Silicon Macs, you no longer need to "Reduce Security" in the startup options to install Control 2 for Thunderbolt Symphony systems. The DEXT loads with your normal security settings intact.