Parallels Desktop – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Virtual Computer Glossary Terms

What is Parallels Desktop?

Parallels Desktop is a software application that allows users to run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems on their Mac computers. It is a virtualization software that creates a virtual machine on the Mac, enabling users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously without the need to reboot the computer.

How does Parallels Desktop work?

Parallels Desktop works by creating a virtual machine on the Mac computer, which acts as a separate computer within the existing system. This virtual machine can run a different operating system, such as Windows or Linux, alongside the Mac operating system. Users can switch between the different operating systems seamlessly, allowing them to run Windows applications on their Mac without any performance issues.

What are the features of Parallels Desktop?

Some key features of Parallels Desktop include:
– Seamless integration: Users can run Windows applications on their Mac without any performance issues.
– Coherence mode: This feature allows Windows applications to run alongside Mac applications, making it easier for users to switch between the two.
– Shared folders: Users can easily share files between the different operating systems running on the virtual machine.
– Snapshot and rollback: Users can take snapshots of the virtual machine at different points in time and roll back to a previous state if needed.
– Virtual machine configuration: Users can customize the virtual machine settings, such as memory allocation and processor usage, to optimize performance.

How to install Parallels Desktop?

To install Parallels Desktop, follow these steps:
1. Purchase a license for Parallels Desktop from the official website.
2. Download the installation file from the website and double-click on it to start the installation process.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
4. Once the installation is complete, launch Parallels Desktop and follow the setup wizard to create a new virtual machine.
5. Choose the operating system you want to install on the virtual machine and follow the prompts to complete the installation.

What are the benefits of using Parallels Desktop?

Some benefits of using Parallels Desktop include:
– Ability to run Windows applications on a Mac without any performance issues.
– Seamless integration between different operating systems.
– Easy file sharing between the different operating systems.
– Customizable virtual machine settings for optimized performance.
– Snapshot and rollback feature for easy system recovery.

How to troubleshoot common issues with Parallels Desktop?

If you encounter any issues with Parallels Desktop, here are some common troubleshooting steps:
1. Restart the virtual machine: Sometimes, simply restarting the virtual machine can resolve performance issues.
2. Update Parallels Desktop: Make sure you are using the latest version of Parallels Desktop, as updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
3. Check system requirements: Ensure that your Mac meets the minimum system requirements for running Parallels Desktop.
4. Reinstall Parallels Desktop: If all else fails, try uninstalling and reinstalling Parallels Desktop to see if that resolves the issue.
5. Contact customer support: If you are still experiencing issues, contact Parallels customer support for further assistance.