We all know you can’t run Windows applications on MacOS, but Parallels Desktop provides you with a way to do just that. No more worrying about how you will use any Windows app on your macOS. Parallels Desktop for Mac installs the Windows OS on our apple computer, allowing you to use any Windows app on the same system, even while the macOS is running in the background.

However, there are specifications for compatibility. Also, the application is a subscription-based program, though you can get a free trial version with full functionalities. Follow the instructions below to learn more and download Parallels Desktop and use Windows on Mac.

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How to Download and Install Parallels Desktop on Your PC for Free

  1. Go directly to the official Parallels Desktop download page.
  2. Click on the Download Free Trial button to download the setup file.
    Parallels Desktop download page
  3. Click the Download Now button on the next page.
    Parallels Desktop download now button
  4. Go to your download folder and open the file you just downloaded. Double-click the Install box to start the installation.
    Parallels Desktop downloading Windows 10
  5. Within a few minutes, Parallels Desktop will download and install all the necessary Windows 10 files on your computer. Wait for the installation process to complete.
  6. Next, you can find the Windows applications you need and install them on the parallel Windows 10 OS. You can either run both operating systems side-by-side or switch full-screen to the Windows OS for a better view.

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Parallels Desktop Overview

One good thing about the free trial version of the software is that it offers you full-fledged functionality.

Once you start the application, you can use it as though you were working on any other Windows PC. Parallels Desktop also allows you to download and install Linux OS on your Apple PC. This is known as desktop virtualization – the software uses Intel VT-x technology to create a simulated environment by virtualizing both hardware and software of your Mac device. Even with the virtualization, you can still revert to your default macOS if you need to.

Parallels Desktop Windows 10 installation

Note that you can either use Parallel Desktop on a Mac powered by the Intel processor or a Mac device powered by the Apple M1 chip (allows you to install Windows 11 on ARM Insider Preview).

Parallel Desktop Features

Easy installation

Unlike other virtual software that assumes you already have a Windows or Linux disk installer image, Parallels Desktop for Mac gives you the option to either use an existing virtual machine or create a new one. You can:

  • Use Windows from Boot Camp
  • Transfer your PC
  • Install Windows 10 directly from Microsoft
  • Install another operating system of your choice from a DVD or image file
Parallels Desktop create new systems

Flexibility

Parallels Desktop for Mac works well on various Windows operating systems (7, 8.1, 10, and 11), including DirectX, Linux. It is also compatible with Google Chrome, Unix on Mac OS, and even on the recent macOS Big Sur.

Install Your Favorite Applications

Once you’re set, you can Install any Windows app of your choosing, just as you would on a PC. You can also switch to your default macOS if you need to access your old applications.

Parallels Desktop Windows 10 desktop screenshot

Easily Transfer files

While using both the parallel virtual machine and your macOS, you can conveniently transfer files between the guest OS and your apple computer. The copy and paste or drag and drop feature makes this very simple.

Multiple Screen Options

Parallels Desktop for Mac allows you to use any of three different screen options to enable you to work conveniently. You can use the:

  • Coherence Mode, which allows you to use applications on both the guest OS and your macOS, side by side, on one screen.
  • Full-Screen Mode to switch to a full-sized Parallels virtual machine window (Windows, Linux, etc.) on your macOS.
  • Modality Mode, which allows you to create a custom-sized virtual machine on your macOS.

Easily Switch between different OS

With the swipe gesture, you can switch between Windows (or any other OS you’ve installed) and macOS by simply swiping from left to right or right to left on your mouse. It’s basically like switching from one tab to another, and you do not need to reboot your computer to switch.

Use Parallels Tools to Boost Productivity

With Parallels Desktop for Mac, you gain access to over 30 diverse tools designed to streamline your daily tasks effectively. Among the various tools provided, you can download videos, clean your computer, capture screenshots, and much more. It’s important to note that the comprehensive Parallels toolbox is exclusively accessible through the yearly subscription plans.

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How to Uninstall Parallels Desktop

If your 14-day free trial is complete and you don’t want to continue using Parallels Desktop, you can delete the software from your computer by following these easy steps:

  1. Shut down your virtual machine and quit Parallels Desktop.
  2. Open your Applications folder and locate the Parallels Desktop icon. Alternatively, you can open the Finder tool, then use it to find Parallels Desktop.
    Parallels Desktop icon on MacOS
  3. Simply drag and drop the Parallels Desktop app to trash or select the app, then choose File > Move to Trash. You can delete it permanently from the Trash.
    Parallels Desktop move to trash on MacOS
  4. The uninstallation wizard will open. Confirm that you want to remove the software, and the uninstallation wizard will delete it from your computer.

Other Apps by Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS: Parallels Desktop for Chrome OS allows you to run full-featured Windows applications, such as Microsoft Office directly on Chrome Enterprise devices, whether you are online or not. Like the Parallels Desktop for Mac app, you can drag and drop files and text between Chrome OS and Windows.

Parallels Toolbox for Mac & Windows: Parallels Toolbox for Mac features the Mac and Windows tools that you need to make your work seamless. You can save space on your Hard Drive, create high-quality content, optimize your computer for a presentation, and much more.

FAQs

Is Parallels Desktop free?

Parallels Desktop for Mac is not free. But you can get the free trial and use it at no cost for 14 days to test out all its features. Follow the download instructions provided above and get access to the software for free.

Is Parallels Desktop Secure?

Yes, you can safely download Parallels Desktop from the official website. This way, you won’t need to worry about malware or viruses. Avoid downloading the software from sites that promise a free version, as they may come with malware.

Can Parallels Desktop for Mac run Linux OS?

Yes. In addition to macOS, Parallels Desktop for Mac17 supports the Linux operating system, and you can enjoy all the features of the application as you would when running the Windows OS on your Mac.
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