Parallels Desktop
Parallels Desktop is a Mac virtualization app that lets you run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems alongside macOS.
What is Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop is virtualization software for Mac that helps you run other operating systems without leaving macOS. It is commonly used to run Windows applications on a Mac, including business, school, development, and compatibility tools that are not available natively on macOS. The app lets you create and manage virtual machines, switch between macOS and guest operating systems, and use files across environments in a more seamless workflow. It supports both Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs, making it useful for users who need access to Windows-only software, Linux distributions, or isolated test environments. Parallels publishes editions for everyday use as well as more advanced workflows, including development and multi-VM setups.
Key features
- Run Windows on a Mac without rebooting
- Create and manage virtual machines for Windows, Linux, and macOS
- Use Windows apps alongside Mac apps in the same workflow
- Share files, text, and other content between macOS and virtual machines
- Set up development, testing, and compatibility environments on one Mac
- Choose editions for everyday use or more advanced multi-VM workflows
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Safety overview
Status: Safe
Parallels Desktop is legitimate virtualization software. It may request access to files, folders, network features, and system resources that are normal for running virtual machines and sharing data between macOS and guest operating systems. Virtual machines can contain sensitive work, personal files, or separate operating systems, so use trusted guest images and keep both macOS and the guest system updated. Removing the app can also remove access to any virtual machines you use with it unless you keep those files separately.
Recommendation: Keep Parallels Desktop if you use Windows, Linux, or other virtual machines on your Mac. Remove it if you no longer need virtualization, but make sure to back up any virtual machine files you want to keep before uninstalling.
Common paths
/Applications/Parallels Desktop.app
Cache paths
~/Library/Caches/com.parallels.desktop.console
Support paths
~/Library/Application Support/Parallels
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/com.parallels.desktop.console.plist
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