Parallels Desktop Archives

Winsage

March 12, 2025

4 features in Parallels that make it the best VM software on Mac

The discontinuation of Boot Camp support for Apple Silicon Macs has led to the rise of virtualization software, with Parallels being a leading solution. Parallels simplifies the installation of Windows 11 by automatically downloading the operating system and creating a local Windows account, avoiding the need for a Microsoft account. It supports high refresh rates, allowing Windows VMs to run at up to 120Hz on compatible monitors. Parallels integrates seamlessly with macOS, enabling users to access files across both operating systems and facilitating a fluid workflow. The Coherence feature allows Windows applications to run within the Mac desktop environment, making them feel like native macOS apps. Parallels is recognized as the premier virtualization choice for running Windows on Apple Silicon Macs, demonstrating strong performance even on entry-level devices.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Get Windows 11 on Your Mac (Apple Silicon): Here’s How

Parallels Desktop is a Microsoft-authorized virtualization software that allows users to install and run Windows 11 on Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4 chips). It is optimized for these processors, ensuring a fast and responsive experience. The installation process is straightforward, requiring users to download and install the software, which automates the Windows 11 setup. Key features include seamless integration between macOS and Windows, allowing file sharing and access to applications across both operating systems without rebooting. Parallels Desktop offers a 14-day free trial, after which users can choose between subscription plans or a one-time purchase. The software is designed to maximize performance for Apple Silicon Macs, making it suitable for various users, including professionals and students.

Winsage

March 5, 2025

Run Windows-only apps on your Mac with Windows 11 Pro

The MacOS platform is praised for its performance, but there are instances where Windows is necessary for specific applications, gaming, or work software. Windows 11 Pro is currently priced at .97, down from .99. To run Windows on a Mac, users can utilize Boot Camp for Intel-based Macs or a virtual machine like Parallels Desktop. Benefits of Windows 11 Pro include access to Windows-only apps, support for DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming, an AI assistant for productivity, advanced multitasking features, and enterprise-grade security measures.

Tech Optimizer

February 28, 2025

Mac security researchers expose two new exploits

Researchers have identified two significant exploits affecting Mac security. The first vulnerability, reported to Parallels seven months ago, will be addressed in upcoming fixes for Parallels Desktop versions 20.2.2 and 19.4.2, which are expected to be released within the week. Apple silicon Macs are not affected by this flaw. The second exploit involves a new malware strain called FrigidStealer, which uses deceptive emails to trick users into downloading an installer that bypasses macOS’s Gatekeeper security, allowing it to capture sensitive information like passwords and browser cookies. Users are advised to avoid downloading software from unverified sources, exercise caution with email links, use Control-click to inspect URLs, and regularly install security updates.

Winsage

December 15, 2024

Windows 11 Pro is on sale for $18 this week only

Windows 11 Pro is available for a limited time at a price of .97, down from its regular retail price of 9. Users can run Windows alongside macOS on Intel-based Macs using Boot Camp or a virtual machine like Parallels Desktop. The operating system offers features such as DirectX 12 Ultimate graphics and Windows Copilot. No coupon is needed to access this offer.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

The Free Way to Run Windows on an Apple Silicon Mac

Apple no longer supports Boot Camp for running Windows on Silicon Macs, but alternatives exist. Microsoft recommends Windows 365 for remote access and Parallels Desktop for virtualization. UTM, an open-source application based on the QEMU emulator, allows users to create a virtual machine for running Windows alongside macOS. UTM supports both the Arm version of Windows, which runs efficiently on Apple Silicon, and emulation of the x86 version, though with potential performance drawbacks. UTM is not ideal for gaming due to the lack of GPU emulation. To set up Windows on a Mac using UTM, users need to download UTM from GitHub or the Mac App Store and obtain a copy of Windows 11. After downloading the Windows ISO, users create a new virtual machine in UTM, choosing to either virtualize or emulate the operating system. Users allocate memory and storage, select a shared folder, and then start the virtual machine to install Windows. After installation, drivers must be installed to enhance functionality, allowing for better display resolution and internet access.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

Parallels brings Apple Intelligence Writing Tools to Windows

Apple has released macOS Sequoia 15.1, introducing Apple Intelligence tools on the Mac platform, which enhance productivity and extend capabilities to Windows applications via Parallels Desktop. Users with a Mac running macOS 15.1 or later can access Writing Tools in Windows virtual machines to improve written content. These tools include functionalities for summarizing text and transforming content into organized lists or tables. To use the Writing Tools in Windows apps, users must update Parallels Tools and can access the features through a keyboard shortcut or the macOS menu bar. Parallels Desktop now supports the ARM version of Windows 11 on M3 Macs. A free trial of Parallels Desktop is available.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

Using Windows 11 on your Mac? You no longer have to miss out on Apple Intelligence thanks to Parallels Desktop

Apple Intelligence has launched on macOS Sequoia 15.1, featuring Writing Tools that allow users to proofread, rewrite, and adjust the tone of their writing. Parallels Desktop has been updated to enable access to these tools for users running Windows 11 on their Macs. The Writing Tools can be activated easily in applications like Microsoft Word and are designed to enhance productivity. Currently, Writing Tools is the only Apple Intelligence feature available on Windows via Parallels, with hopes for more tools in the future. Parallels Desktop is priced starting at .99 / £89.99.