Pf Configuration Incompatible With Pf Program Version File

On macOS, the built-in PF is part of the system kernel. Upgrading macOS (e.g., 12.x to 13.x) updates the kernel’s PF API. However, if you later install a newer pfctl via Homebrew or MacPorts, that userland tool may demand a kernel API version your macOS does not yet support.

modinfo pf | grep version

If pf is not loaded, load it temporarily:

kldload pf
modinfo pf

Alternatively, check the compiled-in version string: pf configuration incompatible with pf program version

sysctl -n net.pf.version

Example output:

1400000

(where 1400000 indicates FreeBSD 14.0)

Sometimes the error appears even after updates because an old binary file persists.

This forces pfctl to generate a brand new binary ruleset that matches both the running kernel and the current userland version. On macOS, the built-in PF is part of the system kernel

# Disable PF
pfctl -d
The solution depends on your specific environment. Choose the path that applies to you.
Once resolved, take these preventative measures: If pf is not loaded, load it temporarily:
This occurs when you restore a configuration file from one operating system onto another.