If you're a Mac user who needs to run Windows applications, Parallels Desktop is a great option (reviewed here) that lets you seamlessly switch between macOS and Windows without having to reboot. Here's how to configure it.
Configuring Parallels Desktop Software for Mac seamlessly
We'll cover everything you need to know, from installing Parallels Desktop to customizing preferences. By the end of this guide, you'll be running Windows on your Mac like a pro. So, let's get started!
Install Parallels Desktop: Download the latest version of Parallels Desktop from their website and follow the installation instructions. Double-click on the downloaded file to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
#2 Create a virtual machine:
Open Parallels Desktop and click on the "+" button in the top right corner. Select "New" to create a new virtual machine. Choose the operating system you want to run on the virtual machine. Parallels Desktop will automatically detect the operating system installation media if it's inserted in your Mac. Alternatively, you can select the ISO file manually.
Customize your virtual machine's settings, including memory allocation, display resolution, and network settings.
#3 Install Windows:
Insert your Windows installation media (DVD, USB, or ISO file) into your Mac. Select "Install Windows" from the Parallels Desktop installation wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows on the virtual machine.
(If needed, the link to download Windows 11 is: here.)
#4 Install Parallels Tools:
After Windows is installed, Parallels Tools should be installed as well. Parallels Tools provides additional features and improves performance.
Go to the Actions menu and select "Install Parallels Tools." Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Terrific! Almost there.
Now complete these personalization steps to complete configuring Parallels Desktop Software for Mac.
**These are your preferences, leave default settings if you are unsure.**
Share files and folders:
Parallels Desktop lets you easily share files and folders between your macOS and Windows environments. Go to the virtual machine configuration, select "Sharing," and configure the sharing settings according to your preferences.
Customize preferences:
Parallels Desktop has many customizable preferences, such as keyboard shortcuts, mouse setup, startup and shutdown behavior, and more. You can allocate the amount of memory, processor cores, and hard disk space to the virtual machine. You can also adjust the display resolution and network settings.
Configure integration:
Parallels Desktop allows you to integrate your macOS and Windows environments seamlessly. You can configure integration settings such as drag and drop, copy and paste, and file association. Go to the virtual machine configuration and select "Options." Select "Integration" and configure the integration settings according to your preferences.
Manage snapshots:
Parallels Desktop allows you to take snapshots of your virtual machine, which allows you to save its current state and revert to it later. Go to the virtual machine configuration and select "Snapshot." You can take a snapshot, manage your snapshots, and delete them if necessary.
Configure security:
Parallels Desktop provides several security options, including password protection, encryption, and antivirus protection. Go to the virtual machine configuration and select "Security." Configure your security settings based on your needs and requirements.
Install additional software:
You can install additional software on your virtual machine just as you would on a physical Windows computer. You can also download and use Windows apps from the Microsoft Store.
Update and maintain:
Parallels Desktop requires regular updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Make sure to update the software and your virtual machine regularly.
By following these steps, you can configure Parallels Desktop for Mac and run Windows applications seamlessly.
Remember to purchase a license for Parallels Desktop before using it. With Parallels Desktop, you can enjoy the best of both worlds and get the most out of your Mac.