Parallels Desktop is a Mac app that runs Windows and other supported operating systems in virtual machines, letting you use their applications alongside Mac apps without restarting. It provides the virtualization layer; it is not Windows itself, and it does not include a Windows license.
How Parallels Desktop works
A virtual machine (VM) is a software-defined computer that runs inside your Mac. Parallels Desktop creates and manages that environment, while macOS remains the host operating system. Windows, Linux, or another supported system runs as a guest inside the VM. Parallels describes the software as “an application that allows you to run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems alongside macOS on your Mac” in its installation guidance.
You can run a VM in a window or full-screen. Coherence mode can display supported Windows applications alongside Mac apps. Sharing files, folders, the clipboard, or devices depends on the VM settings. The key convenience is using supported guest applications without rebooting into another operating system.
What people use it for
- Running Windows-only workplace or school software while keeping macOS available. Parallels gives examples including Excel, QuickBooks, AutoCAD, Access, Visio, Project, and Power BI Desktop; these examples are not a guarantee that every app version or feature will work.
- Testing websites, apps, and services in Windows or Linux, or setting up another supported operating-system environment.
- Opening older files or using software built for Windows.
- Working with Mac and Windows applications at the same time.
Does it work on Apple silicon and Intel Macs?
Parallels’ current download information describes support for compatible Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs, but the available guest systems depend on the processor architecture, macOS version, and Parallels release. Check the current download and compatibility information for your exact Mac before setting up a VM.
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![Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac | Run Windows on Mac Virtual Machine Software | 1 Device | 1 User | 1 Year | Mac | Code [Courier]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41opd2Fd+8L._SL160_.jpg)
- Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac: Use Windows on your Mac without restarting. Fast, easy and powerful: Parallels Desktop 19 for Mac delights millions of Mac users worldwide.
- Easily switch between your Mac and Windows applications, launch Windows applications quickly and easily from the Mac Dock, and use Mac gestures in your Windows applications.
- Run Windows apps alongside your macOS apps or use the familiar Windows desktop with the familiar look and feel of macOS.
- Use Mac's familiar Touch Bar with Windows, copy and paste text and images, or drag and drop files between each operating system. Automatically optimize performance based on your primary usage scenario, allocate CPU and storage resources for maximum productivity, turn on travel mode to extend battery life on the go, save time and storage by acc. Access Mac files etc.
- Operating system: macOS 13 Ventura (if available), macOS Monterey 12, macOS Big Sur 11, macOS Catalina 10.15, macOS Mojave 10.14 - Processor: M-Series, Intel Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, Core i9, Intel Core M or Xeon processor. Memory memor: 4GB RAM - Hard disk space: 600 MB for Parallels - Graphics: M-Series, Intel, AMD Radeon or NVIDIA
Apple silicon Macs
Apple silicon Macs use Arm-based guest operating systems. Parallels identifies Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise on Arm for supported Apple silicon Macs. Windows 11 on Arm can run many x86 and x64 applications using Microsoft’s built-in emulation, but Parallels cautions that some apps, games, accessories, and features may not work—particularly where specific drivers or nested virtualization are involved. For a critical workflow, confirm compatibility with the application or device maker.
Parallels says it is “the only third-party virtualization solution currently authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 in a virtual environment on Apple silicon Macs.” That is Parallels’ statement about authorization, not a guarantee of performance or compatibility with every application.
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- Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac is the world's most powerful solution for running Windows and Mac OS X applications on a Mac, side-by-side- without rebooting. Box includes one Product Key Card - No Disc.
- Run Windows 8, 7 and XP apps like they were made for a Mac while enjoying Mac gestures and features like Dictation in Windows apps
- Transfer everything you need from your PC- applications, documents, games, photo's, music, etc and even Internet browser favorites- directly to your Mac
- Easily drag & drop and copy & paste between Mac and Windows applications
- Sync iCloud, SkyDrive, DropBox, etc without duplication of files locally
Intel-based Macs
Parallels Desktop 26 lists support for compatible Intel-based Mac models and certain x86 guest systems, subject to the Mac model, macOS version, and product release. Compatibility is configuration-specific, so do not assume that an OS supported on one Mac architecture will also work on another.
Does Parallels Desktop include Windows?
No. Parallels Desktop is virtualization software, and its license is separate from a Windows license. Parallels can download Windows 11 during VM setup or use a supported installation image, but activating Windows and using its full features requires a valid Windows license. On Apple silicon, use the compatible Windows 11 on Arm edition and check that the edition and license fit your Mac and intended use.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #3
- Seamlessly run Windows and its applications side by side with Mac OS X on a single Mac; Box includes one Product Key Card - No Disc.
- Install Windows or move your PC documents, files and applications on to your Mac in few easy steps
- Full Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows XP, Google Chrome and Linux support
- Easily copy and paste and drag and drop text and files between Windows and Mac
- 1-click to optimize Parallels Desktop for Mac performance for your needs, whether for productivity apps, design apps, development apps or games
Which Parallels edition fits?
Parallels positions Standard for everyday or light home use, Pro for power users and developers, and Business for teams needing administration tools. The following limits are those listed in the edition comparison available for this article; features and limits can change, so check the live comparison before choosing.
| Edition | Typical fit | Virtual-machine limits listed | Notable distinction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Everyday or light home use | Up to 8 GB virtual RAM and 4 virtual CPUs | Purchase page describes subscription and perpetual-license options; verify current regional terms. |
| Pro | Power users and developers | Up to 128 GB virtual RAM and 32 virtual CPUs | Includes command-line and developer tools; subscription edition. |
| Business | Teams and small businesses | Up to 128 GB virtual RAM and 32 virtual CPUs | Adds centralized administration, license management, deployment, and volume licensing features; subscription edition. |
For a one-time purchase, a Parallels Knowledge Base article last reviewed on September 20, 2024, says the purchased version does not expire, is subject to end-of-life policy, and does not include free upgrades to later major versions. Check the current license terms before treating that older support policy as purchase guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Parallels desktop for mac business subscription 3yr
Rank #4
- Advanced networking tools and configuration for virtual networks
- Business Cloud Service Support
- Headless mode for running virtual machines in the background without user interface
- Headless mode for running virtual machines in the background without user interface. Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition is the easiest and most powerful solution for developers, power users, and other demanding pros looking to increase productivity.
- Enhanced memory (64 GB RAM) and processing power (16 vCPU) for improved performance. 1-year subscription for one Mac. Subscription can be canceled at any time.
What to check before relying on it
- Your Mac model, processor architecture, and macOS version.
- The guest operating system and edition supported for that configuration.
- The specific app, feature, accessory, and driver your workflow needs—not just whether the app is generally listed as an example.
- Whether you have a separate valid Windows license if you plan to activate Windows.
- The current edition limits and license terms if you need a particular VM resource ceiling, developer tool, or team-management feature.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
