Parallels Desktop lets you run Windows and other operating systems directly on your Mac without rebooting. This streamlined workflow is ideal for professionals who depend on Windows apps while staying in macOS.
With native M-series and Intel support, shared folders, and optimized performance, Parallels provides a practical way to expand what your Mac can do. The following sections walk through installation choices, setup steps, configuration, and common troubleshooting topics.
| Feature | Description | macOS Intel | macOS Apple Silicon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtualization technology | Paralleals uses hypervisor frameworks for near-native performance | Intel VT-x / EPT | Apple Hypervisor framework |
| Coherence mode | Run Windows apps without seeing a full desktop | Supported | Supported |
| Shared folders | Seamless drag and drop between macOS and virtual machines | Supported | Supported |
| Snapshots and backups | Save and restore full VM states quickly | Supported | Supported |
| Virtual GPUs | Improved graphics for design and gaming workloads | Via VirtualBox integration or limited third‑party tools | Parallels with limited DirectX 12 support |
Download Parallels Desktop for Mac
Verify system requirements and choose the correct edition
Before you install, confirm that your Mac and macOS version meet Parallels requirements. For M‑series Macs, ensure you download the Apple Silicon build; for Intel Macs, choose the appropriate Intel installer. Visit the Parallels website, select your edition, and complete the download using a stable connection.
Install Parallels Desktop on Mac
Run the installer and authorize the setup
Locate the downloaded disk image, drag Parallels Desktop into the Applications folder, and open it. macOS will prompt you to confirm the app opening; click Open and then follow the guided installer. You may need to authenticate with your administrator password to complete the installation and enable required kernel extensions.
Configure your first virtual machine
Create, optimize, and connect a VM
After launching Parallels Desktop, use the New button to either install from an ISO, macOS Recovery, or by repurposing existing files. Assign CPU cores, memory, and disk space based on your workload, and enable features like Coherence for a smoother user experience. Adjust shared folders, networking, and peripherals so the VM integrates cleanly with your Mac environment.
Performance tuning and integration
Optimize graphics, sharing, and snapshots
Fine‑tune virtual hardware, update Parallels Tools, and manage display settings to enhance responsiveness. Use snapshots to capture stable states before major changes, and configure shared clipboard and drag‑and‑drop for efficient workflows. Monitor resource usage and adjust allocations to keep both macOS and virtual machines running smoothly.
Key setup recommendations
- Verify Mac and Windows license compatibility before installing
- Always download the correct Parallels build for Intel or Apple Silicon
- Allocate sufficient CPU, memory, and disk space for your typical workloads
- Enable Coherence mode for app‑centric workflows without a full desktop
- Use snapshots before major updates or configuration changes
- Keep Parallels Tools and virtual hardware drivers up to date
- Monitor resource usage and adjust VM settings to maintain performance
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I install Parallels Desktop on an M‑series Mac with an Intel Windows license?
Yes, you can install Parallels Desktop on an M‑series Mac and use an Intel Windows license, but you must acquire an ARM‑based Windows build or a version that includes ARM support from your retailer or Microsoft via subscription. The Parallels installer for Apple Silicon handles the architecture differences, while the virtual machine runs Windows on ARM if your license permits.
What should I do if a virtual machine becomes very slow on my Mac?
Check available CPU, memory, and disk space, then allocate more resources to the VM in Parallels settings. Enable Coherence mode to reduce visual overhead, update Parallels Tools, and move heavy workloads to an external SSD if necessary. Adjust graphics settings and disable unnecessary peripherals to improve performance.
How can I share files between macOS and my Windows virtual machine?
Use the integrated Shared Folders feature to map folders between macOS and the VM, enabling drag‑and‑drop and clipboard sharing. You can also set up standard network sharing or cloud storage as alternatives, but Parallels shared folders provide the most seamless and reliable experience for most users.
Will running Windows in Parallels affect Time Machine backups?
Large virtual disk files can increase backup windows and storage usage, so include your VM disk images in your Time Machine exclusions if you prefer faster backups. Alternatively, back up VMs separately with Parallels snapshots and use a dedicated backup schedule for the virtual machines to balance speed and recovery needs.