You also can conveniently run Mac and Windows applications side by side without rebooting while also providing tools for quickly moving files between operating systems, launching programs directly from your Mac dock, and accessing cloud storage. The latest incarnation of the software is compatible with the most recent version of MacOS, allowing you to emulate Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10 as a guest operating system (although since support has ended for Windows XP and 7, you’ll want to be careful what you do with those). When it comes to delivering the Windows experience to Mac users, Parallels Desktop 15 is, well, unparalleled. Note that the downloads do require a 64-bit operating system. Best of all, they remain the most stable and reliable options out there. None of the options are simple to use, but the installation is quick, integration between operating systems is seamless, and the guest software runs at near-native speeds.

There’s a sliding scale for support levels and support terms that businesses can choose from as well as a discounted option if you’re upgrading from an older version of the software to the latest. Speaking of pricing, VMware has a unique pricing model with several different options for all its virtual products. The professional version starts at $150 and is enabled by a license key, though discounts are available for college faculty, staff, students, and even parents. Those learning a different operating system or adding some extra security to their computer activities are people who want to get more familiar with their computer activities - available for both Windows and Linux. It’s an excellent solution for a single home computer. On the other hand, the VMware Workstation Player, known until recently as VMware Player, is an attractive entry-level option: If you are using it for personal use (not commercial, not nonprofit), you can download a free version.

VMware’s Fusion, meanwhile, is a more straightforward application designed for home users who want to run Windows on their Mac machine, and it supports iMac displays. The Workstation Pro package is ideal for professional users who desire a powerhouse virtual machine capable of simultaneously running applications on multiple guest operating systems. Here’s why WWDC could be a ‘critical event’ for Apple This macOS concept fixes both the Touch Bar and Dynamic Island

Best virtual machine software free