About Parallels
Parallels is a software company that develops virtualization software for Mac computers. Their flagship product is Parallels Desktop for Mac, which allows users to run Windows and other operating systems on their Macs without the need for rebooting.
Parallels also offers other virtualization solutions, such as Parallels Remote Application Server and Parallels Access, which allow users to access and run applications and desktops from any device.
The company was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, USA. Parallels has offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, and their software products are used by millions of people around the world.
How Much Does Parallels Desktop Cost?
Parallels Desktop for Mac is available in different editions and pricing options depending on your needs. As of my knowledge cutoff of September 2021, here are the prices for the latest version of Parallels Desktop for Mac:
Parallels Desktop 17 Standard Edition: $79.99 per year or $99.99 for a perpetual license
Parallels Desktop 17 Pro Edition: $99.99 per year or $199.99 for a perpetual license
Parallels Desktop 17 Business Edition: Starts at $99.99 per year per user with volume discounts available
Each edition includes a different set of features and capabilities, with the Pro and Business editions offering more advanced functionality such as support for virtual networking and integration with popular developer tools.
It’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your location and currency. Additionally, Parallels often runs special promotions and discounts throughout the year, so you may be able to find a better deal if you keep an eye out.
What Platforms Does Parallels Desktop Support?
Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software designed specifically for Mac computers, and it allows users to run other operating systems alongside macOS. As of my knowledge cutoff of September 2021, the latest version of Parallels Desktop, version 17, supports the following operating systems as virtual machines:
Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7
macOS Big Sur, macOS Catalina, and macOS Mojave
Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, CentOS, and other Linux distributions
Android, Chrome OS, and other operating systems
Parallels Desktop also includes a number of tools and features that allow for seamless integration between macOS and the virtual machines, such as the ability to run Windows applications directly from the Mac desktop and to share files and folders between the host and guest operating systems.
It’s worth noting that Parallels Desktop is only available for Mac computers and does not support virtualization on other platforms such as Windows or Linux. If you are looking for a virtualization solution for a non-Mac computer, you may want to consider other options such as VMware or VirtualBox.
Getting Started With Parallels Desktop
If you are new to Parallels Desktop and would like to get started using it on your Mac, here are some basic steps you can follow:
Download and install Parallels Desktop: You can download the latest version of Desktop from the Parallels website. Once you have downloaded the installation file, double-click on it to start the installation process and follow the on-screen instructions.
Set up a virtual machine: After installing Parallels Desktop, you will need to set up a virtual machine to run an operating system other than macOS. To do this, open Desktop and click on the “+” button on the top right corner of the window. From there, you can select the operating system you want to install and follow the prompts to set it up.
Install the operating system: Once you have set up your virtual machine, you can proceed with installing the operating system. Parallels Desktop includes a wizard that will guide you through the installation process, just as if you were installing the operating system on a physical computer.
Configure the virtual machine: After installing the operating system, you may want to configure the virtual machine settings to optimize its performance. This can include adjusting the amount of memory and CPU allocated to the virtual machine, configuring network settings, and installing Parallels Tools, which provides additional integration features between the virtual machine and macOS.
Run applications: With the virtual machine set up and configured, you can now start running applications on it. You can launch the virtual machine from within Desktop and use it just like you would a physical computer running that operating system.
These are just the basic steps to get started with Parallels Desktop. The software includes many other features and settings that you can explore as you become more familiar with it. Parallels also provides extensive documentation and support resources to help you get the most out of the software.
Host and Guest Integrations
Parallels Desktop includes several integration features that allow for seamless communication and interaction between the host Mac and guest operating systems running in virtual machines. Here are some examples of host and guest integrations in Parallels Desktop:
Shared folders: Parallels Desktop allows you to share folders between the host Mac and guest operating systems. This makes it easy to transfer files between the two environments and to work with files that are stored on the host Mac while using applications in the guest operating system.
Clipboard sharing: With clipboard sharing, you can copy and paste text and images between the host Mac and guest operating systems. This makes it easy to transfer information between the two environments without having to manually type or re-create the information.
Drag and drop: Parallels Desktop also supports drag and drop functionality between the host Mac and guest operating systems. You can drag files from the host to the guest and vice versa, as well as drag and drop files between applications running on the host and guest.
Coherence mode: Coherence mode allows you to run Windows applications directly on the Mac desktop without having to switch to the guest operating system’s desktop. With Coherence mode, Windows applications appear as if they are running natively on the Mac, making it easier to work with both operating systems simultaneously.
Shared network connections: Parallels Desktop can share the host Mac’s network connection with guest operating systems. This allows you to access the internet and other network resources from within the guest operating system, without having to set up a separate network connection.
These are just a few examples of the host and guest integrations available in Parallels Desktop. The software includes many other features and settings that allow for seamless integration and interaction between the host Mac and guest operating systems.
Additional Features and Customizations
In addition to the host and guest integrations, Parallels Desktop includes a number of other features and customizations that can enhance the virtualization experience on your Mac. Here are some examples:
Virtual machine customization: Parallels Desktop allows you to customize the virtual machine settings to optimize its performance and functionality. You can adjust settings such as the amount of memory and CPU allocated to the virtual machine, the display resolution, and the network and storage settings.
Snapshot and backup: Parallels Desktop includes snapshot and backup features that allow you to save the state of the virtual machine at a particular point in time. This can be useful for testing or experimenting with new software, or for quickly reverting to a previous state in case of a problem or issue.
Integration with macOS features: Parallels Desktop integrates with many macOS features, such as the Touch Bar on newer MacBook Pro models, the macOS Notification Center, and the macOS file system. This allows you to access these features and use them with applications running in the virtual machine.
Support for external devices: Parallels Desktop supports a wide range of external devices, such as printers, scanners, cameras, and USB devices. This allows you to use these devices with applications running in the virtual machine, as if they were connected directly to the guest operating system.
Multiple display support: Parallels Desktop supports multiple displays, allowing you to use the virtual machine on a secondary display while continuing to use the host Mac on the primary display. You can also customize the display settings for the virtual machine to optimize its performance and functionality on different display configurations.
These are just a few examples of the additional features and customizations available in Parallels Desktop. The software includes many other tools and settings that allow for a flexible and customizable virtualization experience on your Mac.
Speed and Performance
Parallels Desktop is designed to deliver high performance and speed for virtualization on a Mac. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to its speed and performance:
Native performance: Parallels Desktop is optimized for running on a Mac, allowing it to take advantage of the underlying hardware and software to deliver high performance and speed. It uses native macOS frameworks and technologies, such as Metal and Core Graphics, to provide a seamless virtualization experience.
Efficient resource allocation: Parallels Desktop uses advanced resource allocation algorithms to optimize the allocation of CPU, memory, and storage resources to virtual machines. This allows for efficient utilization of system resources and ensures that virtual machines have the resources they need to run smoothly.
Hardware acceleration: Parallels Desktop supports hardware acceleration for virtualization, which allows for faster and more efficient operation of virtual machines. It uses technologies such as Intel VT-x, AMD-V, and Hyper-V to optimize performance and reduce overhead.
Dynamic adjustment: Parallels Desktop includes dynamic adjustment features that allow it to adjust the allocation of resources to virtual machines on the fly, based on their current usage and requirements. This allows for a more flexible and responsive virtualization experience, with optimized performance and efficiency.
Compatibility: Parallels Desktop is compatible with a wide range of guest operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. This ensures that you can run the software and applications you need on your virtual machine, without sacrificing performance or compatibility.
These factors, along with other advanced technologies and optimizations, allow Parallels Desktop to deliver high performance and speed for virtualization on a Mac.
Seamless Virtualization Software for Mac Users
Parallels Desktop is a seamless virtualization software for Mac users that allows you to run multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, on your Mac simultaneously. With Parallels Desktop, you can easily switch between operating systems without rebooting your Mac, and you can run applications and software from different operating systems side-by-side.
One of the key advantages of Parallels Desktop is its integration with macOS. The software includes features such as Coherence mode, which allows you to run Windows applications directly on the Mac desktop, as well as shared folders, clipboard sharing, and drag-and-drop functionality between the host and guest operating systems. This integration allows for a seamless and efficient virtualization experience on your Mac.
Desktop also offers a range of advanced features and customizations, such as snapshot and backup, multiple display support, and support for external devices. These features allow you to optimize the performance and functionality of your virtual machines, and to customize them to meet your specific needs.
Overall, Parallels Desktop is a powerful and versatile virtualization software that provides Mac users with a flexible and seamless way to run multiple operating systems and applications on their Mac. Whether you need to run Windows software for work, or Linux or macOS applications for development or testing, Parallels Desktop offers a comprehensive and efficient solution for your virtualization needs.
Parallels PROS
Parallels Desktop has several advantages that make it a popular choice for virtualization on Macs. Here are some of the key pros of using Parallels Desktop:
Seamless integration: Parallels Desktop offers seamless integration between the host and guest operating systems, allowing you to run applications and software from different operating systems side-by-side. This integration makes it easy to share files, folders, and other resources between the host and guest operating systems, and to switch between them without rebooting your Mac.
Performance and speed: Parallels Desktop is optimized for running on a Mac, allowing it to deliver high performance and speed for virtualization. It uses advanced resource allocation algorithms and hardware acceleration to optimize performance and reduce overhead, and supports dynamic adjustment of resources to ensure efficient utilization of system resources.
Advanced features: Parallels Desktop includes a range of advanced features and customizations, such as snapshot and backup, multiple display support, and support for external devices. These features allow you to optimize the performance and functionality of your virtual machines, and to customize them to meet your specific needs.
Compatibility: Desktop is compatible with a wide range of guest operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. This ensures that you can run the software and applications you need on your virtual machine, without sacrificing performance or compatibility.
Easy to use: Parallels Desktop is designed to be easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. It includes a range of pre-configured settings and options to make it easy to set up and manage virtual machines, even if you have limited experience with virtualization.
Overall, Parallels Desktop is a versatile and powerful virtualization software that offers Mac users a flexible and efficient way to run multiple operating systems and applications on their Macs. With its seamless integration, performance and speed, advanced features, compatibility, and ease of use, Desktop is a popular choice for virtualization on Macs.
Parallels CONS
While Parallels Desktop is a powerful and versatile virtualization software for Mac users, there are also some potential drawbacks and limitations to consider. Here are some of the key cons of using Parallels Desktop:
Resource usage: Running multiple operating systems and applications simultaneously can be resource-intensive, and Parallels Desktop may consume a significant amount of your Mac’s CPU, memory, and storage resources. This can lead to slower performance and decreased battery life, particularly on older or lower-spec Macs.
Cost: Parallels Desktop is a commercial software that requires a license fee, which may be a significant investment for some users. While the software includes a range of advanced features and customizations, it may not be worth the cost for users who only need to run a few applications or use virtualization infrequently.
Limited gaming performance: While Desktop supports hardware acceleration and other performance optimizations, it may not be suitable for running graphics-intensive applications or games, particularly those that require high-end graphics cards or dedicated hardware.
Compatibility issues: Although Parallels Desktop is compatible with a wide range of guest operating systems, some applications and software may not run smoothly or may require additional configuration to work properly. This can be particularly true for legacy applications or software that requires specific hardware or software configurations.
Technical knowledge: Virtualization can be complex and may require some technical knowledge to set up and manage. While Parallels Desktop includes a range of pre-configured settings and options to make it easy to use, users with limited experience with virtualization may still encounter some challenges or require additional support.
Overall, while Parallels Desktop offers a powerful and versatile virtualization solution for Mac users, there are also some potential drawbacks and limitations to consider. Users should evaluate their specific needs and requirements before deciding whether Desktop is the right virtualization solution for them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Parallels Desktop is a versatile and powerful virtualization software that offers Mac users an efficient way to run multiple operating systems and applications on their Macs. Its seamless integration, performance and speed, advanced features, compatibility, and ease of use make it a popular choice for virtualization on Macs. However, users should also be aware of its potential drawbacks and limitations, such as its resource usage, cost, limited gaming performance, compatibility issues, and technical knowledge required. Ultimately, the decision to use Desktop should be based on the user’s specific needs and requirements.
Parallels FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Parallels Desktop:
What is Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software that allows Mac users to run multiple operating systems and applications on their Macs simultaneously, without having to reboot. It is a powerful and versatile solution for users who need to run Windows, Linux, or other operating systems or applications on their Macs.
How does Parallels Desktop work?
Parallels Desktop creates a virtual machine on your Mac, which emulates the hardware of a real computer. You can then install and run a guest operating system on the virtual machine, alongside your Mac’s native operating system. Desktop provides seamless integration between the host and guest operating systems, allowing you to run applications and software from different operating systems side-by-side.
What operating systems are compatible with Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop is compatible with a wide range of guest operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. You can install and run multiple guest operating systems simultaneously, and switch between them easily using Desktop’s user-friendly interface.
How much does Parallels Desktop cost?
Parallels Desktop offers several different pricing plans, depending on your needs and requirements. The standard edition costs $79.99 for a one-time purchase, while the Pro and Business editions offer additional features and support for multiple users or teams. You can also purchase an annual subscription to get the latest updates and support.
What are some of the key features of Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop offers a range of advanced features and customizations, including snapshot and backup, multiple display support, support for external devices, and advanced networking and security features. It also includes performance and speed optimizations, such as hardware acceleration and resource allocation, to ensure efficient utilization of system resources.
Is Parallels Desktop easy to use?
Yes, Parallels Desktop is designed to be easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. It includes a range of pre-configured settings and options to make it easy to set up and manage virtual machines, even if you have limited experience with virtualization.
What are some of the potential drawbacks of using Parallels Desktop?
Some potential drawbacks of using Parallels Desktop include resource usage, cost, limited gaming performance, compatibility issues, and technical knowledge required. Users should evaluate their specific needs and requirements before deciding whether Desktop is the right virtualization solution for them.