Parallels Desktop for Mac

The Ultimate Virtual Desktop Software for Running Windows on Mac

Works on Intel and Apple M-series chips

 

Every computer, whether it's a Mac or PC, comes with its pros and cons. Parallels Desktop 19 allows users to take advantage of the best features of both Mac and Windows operating systems. With Parallels, you have a convenient and secure way to manage multiple operating systems on a single computer.

Run Windows on Mac With Parallels Desktop 19 – A Complete Guide

Many people prefer running Windows on their computers, which makes having this operating system within easy reach a necessity. Even Linux and other OSs can find great usability for determined applications and preferences. That's why solutions like Parallels Desktop exist. Parallels Desktop is a platform that gives users the ability to run multiple operating systems on a desktop. It could be Linux, Windows, or some other OS. Today, using additional operating systems on an Apple computer in parallel isn't possible without Parallels Desktop which does exactly that – enables the use of macOS and Windows at the same time.

 

Parallels Desktop 19 – Shop now!

 

Back in the day, around 2006, when Apple decided to shift to Intel CPUs, it became relatively easy to run Windows on Mac thanks to the inception of Apple's Boot Camp. This Apple's feature allows you to run one OS at the time (macOS or Windows), but not both. However, there have been rigorous changes since then. Apple has now moved to its own native M-series chips from Intel. This move meant that Boot Camp became old news. It only followed that running Windows on Macs again became a challenge.

All is not lost, though. Thanks to Parallels, running multiple operating systems on a Mac has always been easy, including the change in processors. In this regard, Parallels Desktop has ensured the convenience and usability of other OSs on Apple's computers, no matter if it's Intel or M-series processor. This platform offers seamless service when running guest OSs within the regular macOS environment.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll show everything you need to know regarding this state-of-the-art virtualization platform for Mac computers. We'll learn more about what's new in the latest delivery of Parallels Desktop for Mac 19, touch on its different Standard, Pro, Business, and ChromeOS variants, and you will also discover the usefulness this platform can bring to your daily activities. Continue reading this guide for in-depth insights.

Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac

Mac computers have been gaining popularity among users over the years. The sleek and modern design of Macs has been one of the reasons why people find themselves drawn to them. Apple puts a lot of effort into making its products visually appealing, and it shows. The design of Macs is simply stunning, making it an exciting and visually appealing computer to own.

Another reason why people love Macs is because of their intuitive user interface. Macs are known for their ease of use, even for people who are not tech-savvy. The operating system, macOS, is user-friendly and efficient. Therefore, users can focus on completing their work without being bogged down by technical issues.

While many people love Macs, there are a few potential downsides of which users should be aware. A major potential downside of Macs is their limited compatibility with certain software and hardware. While Macs are compatible with most software used for general productivity and creative work, they may not be the best choice for users who require specialized software or hardware. For example, some games or software programs may only be available for Windows, which means they won't run on a Mac. Additionally, some hardware, such as printers or scanners, may not work with Macs, which can be frustrating for users who need to use them for office or personal use.

Thankfully, a solution to the downsides of Mac exists, and that's Parallels Desktop for Mac.

 

Parallels Desktop Prices

 

Parallels Desktop's unique virtualization software allows you to create a virtual machine (VM) on your Mac. With it, you can run multiple operating systems on a Mac, at the same time. This makes it different when compared to Apple's earlier Boot Camp because, with Parallels Desktop, you don't have to reboot the computer so the other operating system can run.

As time goes by, Parallels Desktop continues to enhance the number of features it offers its users. Due to being able to run multiple operating systems concurrently, users are able to get a wealth of advantages. For instance, in version 17 of Parallel Desktop, copying and pasting graphics and text between Mac and Windows apps became possible. It became as easy as dragging and dropping images between Mac apps like Safari and Photos into Windows.

It is also important to mention that the Coherence mode feels more intuitive, making it seamless to access apps across OSs. By enabling this mode, other applications won't overlap and affect the aesthetic of your Mac working environment. Furthermore, it doesn't just have to be Windows that you can run concurrently. You can also add Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, red Hat, and more. The support for these operating systems has also received a tremendous boost, making handling them less tedious.

Run Windows on Your Mac Without Pesky Reboots

Do you love your Mac but want to run one of the hundreds of thousands of Windows apps on it? If you're familiar with Microsoft Windows, you know how powerful the suite of programs can be. Well, with Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac, you can do precisely that.

This tool allows you to download and install Windows on your Mac computer, whether it runs on Intel or Apple M-series. Once you have Parallels Desktop up and running, you'll seamlessly copy and paste text between the two operating systems. Similarly, you can drag and drop files, further enhancing your productivity.

If you're a software developer, you'll relish the possibility of developing and testing your code across multiple operating systems in your Mac virtual machine. The best part is that you'll run your Windows applications without experiencing a drop in performance.

Speed, Power, and Simplicity

You get the gist; Parallels Desktop allows you to run all your favorite Windows apps on a Mac, such as Excel, QuickBooks, Visual Studio, and more. Executing these programs won't bring about a lag on your Apple computer. Plus, you won't have to spend precious time rebooting.

Seamless Usage

Why sacrifice one for the other? With Parallels Desktop, you can use Windows with macOS. Whether you own a MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac mini, or Mac Pro, do that without waiting for your computer to restart. Easily move and share files, folders, images, and text between your Mac and Windows programs.

Easy Setup

Parallels Desktop helps you get ahead of your work by detecting what you need for a smooth installation. Depending on your requirements, it'll prompt you on the right download or point you to the proper installer.

Lightning Fast

If you are a graphic designer or programmer, you know how resource-hungry some applications can be. With Parallels Desktop, these programs run without a hitch or slowing down your Mac. AutoCAD, PowerBI, SQL Server, or Visual Studio will run effortlessly. And how about those Windows-only games? Absolutely, you'll get to enjoy them on your Apple computer as well.

Multi-View Options

Are you new to Mac and want Windows to appear on your enter screen? Or would you rather make Windows invisible while you're running its applications? Parallels Desktop lets you choose.

Parallels Desktop for Mac: Features

Unfortunately, many noteworthy software applications do not work on Mac. Parallels Desktop for Mac is here to solve that problem. Or it's here to provide a smoother switch from one operating system to another. Let's discuss the ways.

• The Best of Both Worlds: Don't bother with making the hard choice between a PC or a Mac. Parallels Desktop supports Linux, MacOS, and Windows 11, 10, 8.1, and 7, among others.
• Boot Camp Compatibility: Do you have an existing Boot Camp installation? If so, using it on the Parallels Desktop VM is seamless.
• Streamlined Performance: In one click, you'll be able to tune your virtual machine and optimize it, whether for productivity or games.
• Office 365 Integration: Are you accessing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files on Safari? Open them in their native apps to experience full functionality.
• Disk Space Saver: Breathe easy – your Mac won't run out of space with the Free Up Disk Space assistant. Enjoy automatic space optimization.
• Parallels Toolbox: Featuring over 40 powerful tools, this is one feature you do not want to miss. It comes included with the Parallels Desktop subscription, and lets you clean your disk drives, download videos, take screenshots, etc., in a single click.
• Multi-Display Support: Parallels Desktop resizes what you see on screen according to the specific resolutions of various displays.
• Remote Access Capability: With a subscription, you can access your Mac remotely from any browser or iOS or Android device with Parallels Access.
• Instant Launcher: Access your Windows programs from your Mac Dock.
• Battery Saver: Worried about running out of juice? A travel mode extends your battery life when you're not connected to a power source.
• Reliable Support: Upon activation, enjoy phone, email, and social support 24/7.

Parallels Desktop: The Latest Features

Let's talk about what's new in Parallels Desktop 19. It now fully supports macOS Sonoma 14 both as a primary OS on Mac as well as running in a virtual machine. Plus, the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) is being utilized now, so you get more printing choices and a smoother interaction on Mac computers with Apple silicon.

With a continued cycle of updates, you can rest assured of all the great additions implemented into the platform. What's important to know is that Parallels Desktop 19 has unique updates ahead of the macOS Sonoma set to hit the streets in October 2023. However, most of these are technical, which not everyone will notice immediately. Additionally, some of them are specific to the Business and Pro versions, with others only suitable for developers.

Despite everything, a worthy mention is the reinvigorated interface. The dialog boxes and windows now feature curved lines and candy colors, which Apple has been using a lot recently. The desktop icon is also new, and the VM comes with 3D graphics support through OpenGL 4.1. As a result, you get to enjoy improved performance and compatibility. Other technical updates include:

• Incorporated Touch ID for additional protection, especially for businesses with sensitive data
• New printing system available in Sonoma
• New internet printing protocol (IPP), making it easier to print with your standard printer from a VM
• Featured Visual Code Studio extension, ideal for Pro and Business Editions developers
• Improved support for virtualization machines using macOS on new Macs using Apple Silicon processors

Here is the itemized and more detailed list of what is new in Parallels Desktop 19:

• Look and Feel
  • Adds a new application icon that reflects the latest design guidelines.
  • Adds redesigned dialogs and alerts for easier interaction with the application.
  • Adds confirmation dialogs before opening archived and packed virtual machines.
  • Adds a "Do not show again" checkbox to the warning dialog when reverting to a snapshot.
• Windows on Mac
  • Integration with Mac: Enables using your Mac’s Touch ID to log into your Windows 10 or Windows 11 virtual machine. Your Windows account credentials are securely stored in macOS Keychain, protected with Touch ID, and available only on this Mac.
  • Graphics: Adds support for OpenGL up to version 4.1 in Windows, enabling you to run ArcGIS CityEngine 2023, Vectorworks Vision 2023, VariCAD, and more. This version also improves performance for ArcGIS Pro software.
  • Printing: On macOS Sonoma, Parallels Desktop 19 now uses an Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) for printing from Windows that provides better compatibility with hardware-supported features.
  • Keyboard: In Microsoft Edge, Command+W now closes a tab instead of quitting the application.
• Linux
  • Adds support for several newest Linux distributions, including Ubuntu 22.04.2, Fedora 38, Debian 12, CentOS 9, and more.
  • Enables installing and running the Arm version of CentOS 9 Stream on Mac computers with Apple Silicon.
• macOS (as a virtual machine)
  • Adds the ability to pause and resume macOS virtual machine on Apple silicon.
  • On macOS Ventura 13 and newer, adds the ability to install macOS virtual machines on Apple silicon Macs from an IPSW image using the “Create New” dialog.
  • On macOS Ventura 13 and newer, adds support for “Scroll & Zoom” multi-touch gestures.
  • On macOS Sonoma 14 and newer, enables support for dynamic virtual machine resolution adjustment based on the virtual machine window size.

The above features apply to all editions of Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac. now we'll go further to see what is new in Pro and Business editions only.

Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac Pro Edition Only – What's New?

• Improved compatibility with HashiCorp Packer
  • Parallels SDK and Python are no longer required for Parallels Packer Plugin and Parallels Desktop;
  • Adds the ability to use Packer with a macOS virtual machine on Apple Silicon;
  • Includes a set of sample Packer templates to be used with Parallels virtual machines: https://github.com/Parallels/packer-examples/
• Linux on Apple silicon: x86_64 emulation
  • Adds a ready-to-download Ubuntu appliance to the “Create New” dialog, configured specifically for running x86_64 containers or applications. Note: Ubuntu snap applications are not supported;
  • Adds the option in the CPU & Memory settings to enable x86_64 emulation in Linux virtual machines on Apple Silicon machines. This option is enabled by Apple Rosetta 2 and allows developers to run x86 Docker containers and MS SQL Server. Note: Additional configuration is required within Linux. To get started quickly, download a pre-configured Ubuntu Linux virtual machine via the Installation Assistant menu.
• Visual Studio Code extension for Parallels Desktop
  • Adds a new Parallels Desktop extension for Visual Studio Code to create, group, create and manage Parallels virtual machines and Vagrant boxes in a more flexible way than ever before;
  • Allows you to quickly manage your containers from within the Visual Studio Code extension, you can start/stop/restart a container without the need to log into the machine as long as it is running.
• Network
  • Adds the ability to use port forwarding with a macOS virtual machine on Apple silicon (requires a macOS Sonoma 14 as the host OS). Configure port forwarding rules in the Parallels Desktop preferences -> Network.
• Command Line
  • Adds the ability to send keyboard key events (press/release) using the prlctl command-line tool (e.g., $ prlctl send-key-event <VM ID> -k,--key <key> | -s,--scancode <scancode> [-e,--event <press|release>] [-d,--delay <msec>]);

Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac Business Edition Only – What's New?

• Adds support for enrolling Windows virtual machines in Windows management solutions (e.g., Intune):
  • Using Parallels Deployment package (improved);
  • Using Parallels My Account configuration profiles to provision Windows virtual machine (support added);
  • Using a prepackaged Windows virtual machine and sharing it as a file (support added).
• Adds support for deploying Parallels Desktop with a macOS virtual machine for Mac computers with Apple silicon.

More Features of Parallels desktop

The above were some of the new features of the version 19. But Parallels Desktop already had a lot to offer.

A More Wholesome Gaming Experience

Take your gaming fun to the next level with Parallels Desktop 19. No need to fuss around with cables or complicated setups because this powerful software automatically connects your Xbox or PlayStation DualShock Bluetooth game controllers to Windows and Linux. With just a simple connection to your Mac, you can effortlessly switch to Windows and dive straight into your favorite games. Say goodbye to the hassle and hello to seamless, uninterrupted gaming bliss.

Easy Sharing

Transform your file-sharing experience between Mac and Windows with just a few clicks. With Parallels Desktop's powerful customization feature, you can easily handpick the local or cloud folders you want to share between operating systems. It's never been easier to stay organized and keep your files in sync across platforms.

Optimized Disk Space

With Parallels Desktop it is easy to keep track of your resources and memory, so you can optimize your system and get the most out of your device. With the Free Up Disk Space assistant, you can calculate the disk space used by Snapshots, giving you a more accurate picture of your storage usage. It's the end of guessing games or manually calculating; just easy and efficient management of your Mac's resources.

Recovery Mode Booting

Unlock a whole new level of power with the latest update for macOS Ventura VM on M-based Macs. You can boot into Recovery Mode and easily disable System Integrity Protection, giving you unparalleled control over your system.

Built for the Newest Apple Computers

Parallels Desktop 19 has taken things to the next level by improving compatibility with Apple's ProMotion display, so you can enjoy an even smoother and more responsive view. Plus, the new update unleashes the full potential of Apple M-series chips, giving you lightning-fast performance that's sure to blow you away.

The latest version also allows Windows to adopt display refresh rate changes made in macOS Preferences automatically. Therefore, you can seamlessly switch between operating systems without missing a beat. And if you're using a Mac Studio with the Apple M1 Ultra chip, you can assign more RAM and CPU cores to Windows, resulting in up to 96% faster Windows 11 performance on your Mac. Don't settle for anything less than the best.

An Improved USB 3.0

Revolutionize your live streaming experience with Parallels Desktop featuring improved support for USB 3.1. You can seamlessly connect and use live data streaming devices like webcams, game capture devices, and a wide range of video and audio streaming devices. We're talking Elgato HD60 S, SOCT Copernicus REVO, and so much more. No more worrying about lag or dropped frames; the advanced USB 3.1 support ensures you can stream your content with the utmost clarity and reliability.

Protected Network Configuration

The latest update is all about giving you peace of mind and protection when it comes to network connectivity. You'll appreciate the basic network connectivity protection to ensure you don't accidentally break anything while using the software. Enjoy the added layer of protection against unintentional network connectivity issues.

Host and Guest Integrations

Much of Parallels Desktop's design revolves around offering app integration, similar to VirtualBox and VMware Fusion. As aforementioned, the integrations between the virtual guest systems and macOS host make dragging and dropping files between them easy. At the same time, you can go ahead and share your clipboard or launch apps on Windows to launch files on your macOS host. The opposite is also true.

The default setting is unique. When you launch your Windows OS on Parallels Desktop, all the other macOS folders will automatically appear on your Windows desktop. This approach might not be everyone's cup of tea, but many users still appreciate it. One thing that's important to highlight is that Windows might have problems parsing these applications in some cases and display them as folders instead. If that's the case, be careful when managing your Mac apps to avoid messing them up.

In addition, Parallels Desktop can operate in three modes: full-screen mode, running in a window, or Coherence mode. In the latter, Parallels Desktop will feature one Windows app in its independent window while hiding the rest. It can also switch in and out of these three modes independently.

Furthermore, you can still go on with your daily routine without disruption. For instance, the peripherals installed on your Mac, like printers, will appear in your Windows dialog box. Also, you can attach another USB peripheral, and the software will let you pick how or where you wish to access the files. At the same time, you can send Windows-only keystrokes like PrintScreen or Break through a menu that appears on your Mac. Although you might have met some of these features in other pieces of virtualization software, those in Parallels Desktop are more lucid, and their menus are better organized.

Running Windows on Your Mac

It is undoubtedly true that most people purchase Parallels Desktop to run Windows more than any other operating system on Mac. The fact that you can easily update your software in a matter of clicks is a plus. But when Apple decided to go their way and started using ARM-based M-series chips, running Windows on Macs became a little more problematic. The onset of Parallels Desktop made the elusive Windows on Mac a reality — an ARM version of Windows.

Even though it is still possible for you to run other versions of Windows if you have an Intel Mac, running your Windows OS on other older Macs may be challenging. A great example is trying to run Windows 11 on a Mac. It may only work after some time because it needs a special security chip called TPM 2.0. It may be a challenge because Macs don't come with these chips. But Parallels Desktops found a workaround. They added a virtual TPM chip capable of seamlessly working with Windows 11, plus the accompanying BitLocker data encryption capabilities.

Performance

Incredible performance is one of the specifications to consider when buying any software. Parallels Desktop is no different. When running any operating system on a Mac, it is essential to ensure that it runs excellently, without any lag. Here is why Parallels Desktop continues to improve, especially in terms of graphic performance and memory allocation.

The fact that you want to run multiple operating systems on your Mac already indicates the need for ample disk space, plentiful memory, and processor power. All these things are essential for enabling your VM to run effectively. But if you have your hands on a multi-core processor Mac, you can run routine apps like Microsoft Excel and Word using a VM effortlessly.

You must ascertain that your computer has adequate specs to run Windows and macOS concurrently. For you to thoroughly enjoy your Parallels Desktop experience, make sure that your Mac features adequate RAM. For this purpose, Parallels Desktop 19's minimum requirement asks you to have at least 4 GB. Additionally, you need 600 MB for application installation and at least 16 GB of free disk space to install the operating system.

One good news is that you can specify the number of processor cores your Mac can utilize for your VM. Doing this may sound challenging for newbies. That is why the Automatic Resource Manager feature became available starting from Parallels Desktop 17. This tool is incredibly useful in monitoring your VM to decipher how much processor power and memory would be enough to run your programs efficiently. It will automatically allocate the necessary memory and resources, making it easier for newbies to operate and enjoy the benefits of working with virtualization software.

Parallels Desktop 19 also brings forward another feature introduced in its 14 iteration, the Free Up Disk Space feature. Although you could use this characteristic to take back the storage you could need for other programs, it is best to use it to limit the amount of space they consume. With this feature, you can resume or shut down tasks and archive VMs you are not actively using.

Running Multiple macOS Instances on Your Device

You don't have to run another operating system on your Mac. You can also choose to have multiple macOS instances running on your computer, all thanks to Parallels Desktop. One can be a host and the other a guest VM. With this approach, you can go ahead and run your newest macOS or test a beta version before fully installing it without losing your essential files.

However, remember that the M-series Macs could limit you from running older versions of macOS, especially those older than Big Sur. The reason is simple: earlier versions were designed for ARM-based systems.

Cost of Buying Parallels Desktop

The cost of acquiring the latest version of Parallels Desktop can vary depending on which version you get. Thus, you must know which version of this virtualization software you wish to buy and the needs you want satisfied. There are three versions, or better say editions of the software: Standard, Pro, and Business.

If you are primarily a home user with limited needs, you may be going for the Standard Edition with a one-time permanent license fee of $129.99. The only downside to this approach is that it only covers the current version and doesn't guarantee the compatibility of any future versions. To avoid this, you can go for the Standard subscription version, where you pay $99.99 annually. Alternatively, if you are a student, there is a specialized offer of $49.99 per year. This fee will cover you even if you decide to upgrade to a newer version of Parallels Desktop. Remember, you won't be able to enjoy free upgrades if you end up settling for the one-off license fee package.

Pro Edition will leave you with $119.99 less per year, but they come packing not only extra virtual RAM and CPUs for each VM but also several additional features we'll be detailing below. Finally, the Business Edition will set you back $149.99 a year, but you will enjoy multiple admin and maintenance tools suitable for your business. There is no one-off license fee for these two other editions, just annual subscriptions. This makes sense as Pro and Business users certainly want to be up to date with their Parallels software. Annual subscription covers everything.

Parallels Desktop Pro Edition

If you need a little more push while running multiple operating systems on your Mac, the Parallels Desktop Pro Edition is apt for consideration. It comes with all the features above. You will still enjoy optimization for macOS Sonoma, easy one-click download and installation of Windows 11, seamless integration, setup-free usage of Windows game controllers, and more.

The Pro Edition of the Parallels Desktop software exists with graphic and web designers, developers, and other power users in mind. It is the ideal partner for professional users aimed at delivering productivity. With this edition, you'll be able to run all those graphic-intensive Windows applications flawlessly while at the same time using other advanced tools for virtual networking and debugging. Parallels Desktop Pro promises maximum performance and enhanced functionality for advanced users thanks to its advanced resource management system and top-notch security.

However, there are some critical differences between the Standard and Pro versions of Parallels Desktop worth having in mind. You will definitely get features in the Pro version that the Standard version lacks, which is the reason why you need to put more money forward to enjoy this higher-tiered edition on your Mac. Below are the key similarities and differences you need to consider between these two versions.

Further, with the Parallels Desktop 19 Pro Edition, you gain a seamless remote debugging and profiling experience with the Visual Studio plugin. And with advanced virtual networking tools, you can streamline your VM management process like a pro. That's not all - the latest version now comes with a CLI for macOS VM on Apple M-series Mac. Plus, integrations with Vagrant, Docker, Packer, and Minikube will make your life easier than ever before. You can even manage more virtual machines with templates, colors, and sorting options. And in case of any issues, premium 24/7 phone and email support has you covered.

Key Similarities to the Standard Edition

• You can easily download and install your Windows 11 effortlessly on both editions. Typically, one click away.
• Much like the Standard Edition, the Pro Edition can use Windows from Boot Camp.
• Both the Pro and the Standard editions offer Virtual TPM Support.

Differences When Compared to Standard Edition

Since the Parallels Desktop Pro Edition is the better version for those who know their way around computers, it's the one that will deliver the more significant results. Now, let's identify the many differences between both the Standard and Pro versions of Parallel Desktops. The vital ones that you may need to know are:

• With the Pro version, you can download ready-to-go Windows operating systems with the Visual Studio extension.
• You can also use the Pro Edition to limit VM resource usage. You can do this depending on the number of VMs you have.
• You can pair the Nested Virtualization with WSL 2, a feature that allows devs to run a Linux environment on Windows, and Docker for better results.
• The Pro version features Rollback Mode, which allows you to undo changes on your VM shutdown.
• Unlike the Standard Edition, sharing your smart card readers with your Windows OS is possible.
• You can also prepare your virtual machine for transfers from a different cloud storage in the Pro Edition.
• It allows for guest OS debugging and is ideal for general debugging, dumping VMs, and starting SSH sessions.
• The Pro Edition comes with an enhanced network editor, allowing you to test various connectivity issues.
• You can resolve any pending DNS requests from your virtual machine via etc/resolver.

These are some of the primary differences between the Pro and Standard editions. As you can see, it's a list that truly runs the gamut, with the Pro edition clearly coming ahead of the Standard by a mile due to all the conveniences it brings. Please note that you can also use the Pro version to establish a custom control for all your VMs in the Control Center.

Additionally, the Pro Edition consolidates several of the features found in the Standard version, like improved battery life and VM performance, Cortana support, and Quick Look and Travel Mode to deliver quality results.

Before purchasing your Pro Edition subscription, you must ensure your computer meets the base requirements. For instance, your Mac's processor should be any Apple silicon chip or Intel Core i5 and above. Alternatively, an Intel Core M or Xeon processor could also do the trick. Also, ensure it has at least 4 GB of RAM and 600 MB of free space to install your Parallels Desktop Pro Edition. You must remember that you will need an additional disk storage space to operate your guest OS, which should be about 16GB. You should be good to go with the Apple M-series chips, Intel, NVIDIA, or AMD Radeon graphic cards combined with the proper operating systems.

 

Compare Parallels Desktop Editions

 

Who Needs It?

Attention all developers, power users, and demanding professionals. The Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition was designed with you in mind. Experience the ultimate processing power you need to code in Visual Studio, design and build in Autodesk apps, automate in PowerShell, play heavy Windows games, and so much more – all on your Mac and just as quickly as you would on a PC.

This software takes your productivity to the next level by providing unmatched performance and reliability. No more worrying about limitations or compatibility issues. Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition has got you covered! Take your work to the next level with unparalleled processing power and efficiency.

Working With Multiple Native Browsers?

Get ready to take your web development to the next level with the Parallels Desktop Pro version. You can run Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge right on your dev machine, all at the same time. And that's not all! You can also run incompatible browsers in separate installations of Windows in separate VMs, giving you unparalleled flexibility and control over your development environment.

But that's just the beginning. With this software, you can simultaneously create a test environment across the group using your favorite web development tool. Whether you prefer Dreamweaver, WordPress, Microsoft Expression, or something else entirely, you can easily and efficiently change your site.

And for those who regularly use multiple IE versions, the Parallels Toolbox has got you covered. Launch them all at once and save time like never before. Plus, with the Parallels Toolbox included with your purchase of Parallels Desktop Pro Edition, you can access even more tools and features to take your web development to the next level.

Say Goodbye to Complicated Virtual Machine Creation Processes

With Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition, you can now easily create an independent virtual machine from a linked clone with just a few clicks. The updated Control Center UI makes it simple to get started, or you can use the Parallels Desktop CLI for even more control and customization.

No more wasting time with convoluted processes or struggling to create new virtual machines. This software makes it easy to get up and running in no time. Get ready to experience the ultimate in virtual machine creation and management.

Calling All Visual Studio Developers!

Get ready to take your software development to the next level! The Visual Studio plugin for Mac with Apple M-series chips allows you to debug in a safe, isolated environment. With just one click, you can develop software in one virtual machine and test it in others, all while enjoying the unparalleled processing power of Apple's M-series chips.

The updated plugin is now even easier to install in Visual Studio. And with the new remote debugging feature, you can build and test your project locally before selecting the virtual machine you need to run it in.

Say goodbye to complicated debugging processes and hello to a streamlined, efficient development experience.

Numerous Developer Tools for Optimized Programming

As mentioned, Parallels Desktop Pro for Mac is a must in every developer's toolbox. Make full use of the following features:

• Command Line Interface: Control Parallels Desktop for Mac and virtual machines with ease using prlctl and prlsrvctl commands. Enjoy the convenience of auto-completion for these commands in bash and the ability to pass arguments to VM applications.
• Vagrant: Easily access Parallels virtual machines with Vagrant Parallels Provider. You can download ready-to-use machines or create and share your custom boxes with colleagues. With Vagrant Share, grant access to your VM via SSH or HTTP and simplify collaboration and teamwork.
• Kubernetes via Minikube: Use the Minikube driver for Parallels to establish a Kubernetes cluster locally.
• Docker: The Docker Machine Parallels Driver allows you to generate Docker hosts using Parallels Desktop, resulting in improved shared folders and overall performance.
• Jenkins: Achieve seamless build processes for macOS and iOS apps with Jenkins and continuous integration (CI). Utilize the Jenkins plugin to initiate and manage Parallels Desktop VMs dynamically during build jobs, suspending them during idle time for optimized resource usage and high-density performance.
• Nested Hyper-V Support: Parallels Desktop supports nested virtualization, allowing users to run Hyper-V and other virtual machines and emulators within the software.
• Packer: Use Parallels Builder to create virtual machines in Parallels Desktop.

Parallels Desktop for Mac Business Edition

Want to make your employees' lives easier by allowing them to download a preconfigured Windows on their Mac? Well, good news!

Parallels Desktop for Mac Business Edition offers a per-user licensing option, perfect for companies that are ready to use SSO/SAML/SCIM integration. And that's not all. You'll also enjoy centralized administration and management, along with a unified volume license key for mass deployment. Simplify your work and boost productivity with these exciting new features.

The Business edition is a solution optimized for running Windows applications on Intel and Apple M-series chips Mac. It increases productivity by allowing Windows and Mac applications to run side by side and offers easy management of Windows 11 through the provision, deployment, or transfer of virtual machines. It also provides centralized administration with transparent licensing and multiple deployment options. Additionally, 24/7 premium phone and email support come included.

The Business Edition is very different from the Pro and Standard Editions. As the name suggests, the engineering of its features aims to deliver business-level services to IT admins. It offers enhanced security, robust management tools, and flexible licensing options. This version seeks to aid those large businesses that need to run Windows on their Mac devices. The following are some notable characteristics that make Parallels Desktop's Business Edition stand out from their two other offerings:

• User Access Control: If you are an IT administrator, these enhancements will play a critical role in enabling you to enforce key business policies by restricting user access to some settings or apps when running in guest operating systems. It helps maintain some level of compliance with the stipulated business guidelines. At the same time, it enables other employees only to use the available apps.
• Data Encryption: Since this edition can support Windows BitLocker through the TPM chip, your business will have an easier time encrypting information, especially if you deal with sensitive data going through virtual machines. You don't have to worry about confidential data falling into the wrong hands, even if you lose your device.
• Virus Protection: Worrying about malware attacks shouldn't be one of your concerns when running the Business Edition. The integrated feature prevents malware from targeting your Windows and macOS environments. With this tier, you can even use solutions like Microsoft Defender Antivirus.

Centralized Deployment and Management Capabilities

The Parallels Desktop 19 Business Edition doesn't only offer seamless integration between guest operating systems and macOS; it also makes managing and deploying multiple instances a straightforward process thanks to its robust admin capabilities. As an IT admin, you will find it relatively effortless to deploy your chosen environment into other employees' OS within your network.

This enhanced deployment is made possible by the Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) and the Apple Remote Desktop, which are superb mass deployment tools. It is also possible for you to centrally manage your licenses via the Parallels Licensing Portal. This portal makes a fantastic way of ascertaining that all the users in the network enjoy access to updated support and software versions.

There are many other robust features that you will enjoy while using the Business Edition. All of them are uniquely designed to cater to the needs of organizational environments, especially those running both Windows and Mac applications. In addition, the centralized deployment options, M-series compatibility, and enhanced security measures make this edition one of the best choices for organizations that need to streamline their IT infrastructure.

That is why, if you are an IT administrator, you will love these powerful tools that make it relatively easy to deploy and manage your Mac and Windows applications throughout a vast organization. If you are looking for a piece of software that can help you with the centralized administration and management of several OSs and apps within your company, this is it!

The Epitome of User Experience

Experience the benefits of running both macOS and Windows OS simultaneously without interrupting your workflow. Seamlessly share files, folders, images, and clipboard content between applications with simple drag-and-drop or copy-and-paste functions. Preview files instantly from within File Explorer using macOS QuickLook and access macOS Dictionary to look up words and synonyms directly from Windows apps.

Parallels Desktop operates efficiently on any Mac system, whether powered by Intel processors or Apple M-series chips. Windows 10 can now resume up to 38% faster, allowing you to access Windows applications swiftly. Run graphics-heavy and resource-intensive Windows applications without compromising your Mac's performance.

Instant Access to Business-Critical Applications

With Coherence Mode, users can hide Windows while using Windows apps and easily switch between Mac and Windows with a single click or swipe. Alternatively, users can set Windows to occupy the entire screen for a familiar PC experience. Parallels Desktop also supports external USB devices, including smart cards and other Windows-compatible peripherals, and allows users to print Windows files using printers already configured for their Mac. Additionally, users can use Windows apps on multiple monitors.

Experience complete compatibility with Parallels Desktop and run a wide range of business-critical applications, including Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, PowerBI, AutoCAD, Quicken, QuickBooks for Windows, Internet Explorer, SAP products, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, Autodesk products and much more, without any trade-offs.

Redefining Power User Abilities

How does Parallels Desktop Business streamline workflows and reduce IT overhead?

For one, you can use a deployment package to configure, deploy, and tune Parallels Desktop settings, add Windows applications to the Dock, and enable Single Application Mode using Mac management tools like Jamf, In Tune, Kandji, Mosyle, Munki, and others.

Moreover, if you don't have or prefer not to use a Mac Management Solution, you can still easily enroll new users. Just send them an automatically generated email with a download link for Parallels Desktop, and their installation will activate automatically with just a few clicks.

As an admin, you can facilitate access to required Windows applications for all or specific users in your organization by providing a link to a Windows image on the Parallels My Account portal. Users can then download and use the Corporate Windows virtual machine through Parallels Desktop.

With the universal binary in Parallels Desktop Business Edition, you can create a single package for both Intel and M-series Chips Mac computers. Configuration profiles can be used in Parallels Business Account to provide a Windows VM image, streamlining package management across multiple devices.

Lastly, enjoy managing your Parallels Desktop licenses effortlessly by using a single volume license key for all installations or creating sublicenses for different departments, office branches, and contractors. Keep track of insightful usage statistics and real-time licensing activities, and enjoy the flexibility to enable or disable automatic upgrades to sync with version and feature releases. You can also create an on-site update server based on your preference.

Layer Upon Layer of Security

With Parallels Desktop, you can join Mac-based Windows instances to Active Directory, ensuring secure user and device access. Plus, you can enforce policies to protect against potential risks from external devices like USB sticks and smart cards.

Take advantage of Parallels Desktop's data protection features by encrypting and password-protecting Windows virtual machines, giving you an added layer of security. You can even create time-bound, encrypted virtual machines that automatically expire and lock at a specified time, offering peace of mind when sharing corporate data.

 

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Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS

Besides being made to run on MacOS, Parallels Desktop is also available for ChromeOS based devices. If you are in a need to run Windows apps while using Chromebook devices, learn more about Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS.

 

Conclusion: The Usefulness of Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software that allows you to run multiple operating systems on your Mac without having to reboot. It enables access to software that is only available on other platforms, increases productivity, provides access to legacy software, and improves security by isolating different tasks. It is a valuable tool for developers, businesses, and individuals who need to run multiple operating systems or access software not available on the Mac platform. Because this tool is easy to use, trusted, and fast, it is quickly becoming the go-to for individuals and businesses who want the best of all words.

Despite the looming fears that Corel's acquisition of Parallels would result in a major drawback for the software in 2018, things have been anything but. To this day, Parallels continues to work as an independent entity within Corel's umbrella of operations. This approach ensures Parallels maintains its identity while delivering exceptional service.

As you've been able to assert by reading this comprehensive guide, there are several reasons why you should take advantage of the immense features Parallels Desktop has to offer. It remains one of the best and fastest VMs for running multiple operating systems, offering superb seamless virtualization for Mac users looking for more autonomy. It also boasts incredible features for IT administrators, web and graphic designers, and other power users. Finally, it is also worth pointing out the available curated versions that ensure students, professionals, and administrators get the most out of the software.

It doesn't matter which edition you choose; you will get all the productivity assurance you need thanks to its excellent speed optimization suggestions, simple and intuitive interface, and comprehensive security options. All these features make Parallels Desktop the undefeated choice for people who want to continue running Windows and other OS applications on their Apple computers.

 

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