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kOSKextReturnDependencies
Resolution covers more than finding a file
kOSKextReturnDependencies means that the loader could not assemble a usable dependency graph for the requested kext. XNU defines OSBundleLibraries as the bundle property that declares library dependencies. A dependency can be absent, the wrong compatible version, unsuitable for the required architecture, or itself rejected during validation or authentication.
Apple’s kextload sources also show that the loader searches system repositories, explicitly named extensions, additional repository directories, and supplied dependencies. A same-named bundle found in a different search location can therefore be relevant; the filesystem layout alone is not proof of the graph selected by the loader.
What to compare
- Record the requested bundle identifier and the full set of dependency identifiers and version constraints.
- Determine the resolved bundle path for each dependency, rather than checking only that some copy exists on disk.
- Check architecture and authenticity for every resolved dependency, not just the target extension.
- Correlate the first dependency diagnostic with repository order and any installer or management action that changed the available bundles.
References
- XNU: OSKextLib.h and OSBundleLibraries
- Apple kext_tools: kextload search and dependency handling
- Apple Platform Security: securely extending the kernel
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