Parallels Desktop has two operation modes users can choose from. It has an annual update to keep up with the latest macOS version. Parallels Desktop holds a leading position in the virtual machine market. ( Boot Camp Assistant cannot be used on M1 Macs.)Ĭommon virtual machine programs (including free options) Parallels Desktop Generally speaking, Parallels Desktop stands out from the rest due to its speed, convenient installation, and support for M1 macs. We will discuss some of the most popular system virtual machine software in a minute. Yes, there are many virtual machines for users to run Windows or other operating systems on Macs. When we talk about installing multiple operating systems using virtual machines, we are discussing system virtual machines. It creates various isolated execution environments in a physical computer by partitioning computer memory to install and execute different operating systems. System virtual machines: A system virtual machine, also called hardware virtual machine or full virtualization, is deployed to mimic the process and components of an actual computer. It's embedded with compilers that translate an entire set of instructions into machine language before execution to provide a platform-independent experience. Process virtual machines: A process virtual machine is used to run a single application and disappears when the application is closed. Here are two primary virtual machines - system virtual machines and process virtual machines.

Trying out a new operating system such as macOS Monterey.

Backing up your existing operating system.Installing an older Mac OS to run old applications.Here are a few ways virtual machines are used: By far, Virtual machines are the most efficient way to switch between different operating systems while running them simultaneously. Therefore, there are absolutely no risks in installing other operating systems on your Mac. Software inside a virtual machine can't interfere with the host operating system. It is the solution for running different operating systems without purchasing a new computer.

Other alternatives to installing Windows on a MacĪ virtual machine, also shortened to VM, is a virtual computer within a physical server that runs like an individual computer with a particular operating system and applications. Then, this article is the right one for you.

If you are one of the cross-platform computer users who need to transfer between macOS and Windows constantly, then you must have heard of virtual machines and likely want to dig more about it.

Run mac on windows virtual machine