how do i get a VM so i can run parallels! had it a few years ago this was not an issue very confused and tech level 1 - why does it seem i have to enter some rabbit hole to get it- what am i not understanding!

Question

how do i get a VM so i can run parallels! had it a few years ago this was not an issue very confused and tech level 1 - why does it seem i have to enter some rabbit hole to get it- what am i not understanding!

Answer 1

Hi, I'm Henry! I will help you with this.

Before helping with the VM setup, I should first ask whether you are using Mac or Windows.

Whether you used Parallels before or are facing new challenges, let's go step by step.

1. Are You Using a Mac or Windows PC?

• If you’re on Mac: Parallels Desktop is designed for macOS, and you can install Windows or another OS inside a virtual machine (VM).
• If you’re on Windows: Parallels is mainly for Mac, but on Windows, you might need Hyper-V, VirtualBox, or VMware instead.

2. Setting Up Parallels on Mac

• Install Parallels Desktop: Download & install Parallels here.
• Create a New VM
  • Open Parallels Desktop → Click + (New VM).
  • Choose an OS (Windows, Linux, etc.).
  • If installing Windows, Parallels can automatically download Windows 11 for ARM (for M1/M2 Macs).
• Configure VM Settings
  • Allocate CPU, RAM, and disk space based on your Mac’s specs.
  • Enable Coherence Mode if you want Windows apps to run like native Mac apps.
• Complete Installation
  • Follow the steps inside the VM and update drivers for smooth performance.

3. If You're Using Windows

• Since Parallels is mainly for Mac, you’ll need another VM software:
• Hyper-V (Built-in on Windows Pro/Enterprise)
  • Enable Hyper-V:
  • Open Run (Win + R) → type optionalfeatures → enable Hyper-V.
  • Open Hyper-V Manager → Create a new VM.
  • Select an OS ISO file and follow the setup.
• VirtualBox (Free Option)
• VMware Workstation Player (Another Alternative)

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you used Parallels before but now have issues, check:

Mac Type → Intel vs. Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3).

OS Compatibility → Older versions of Parallels may not support latest macOS.

ISO File Location → Ensure your Windows ISO is local, not on a network share.

Parallels Version → Older versions may need updates for Windows 11 ARM.

Let me know if you need any extra details.