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When’s the last time someone handed you a flyer, a business card, or a printed coupon—and you actually kept it?

Didn’t think so.

Odds are, it ended up crumpled in your bag, lost in your car, or straight in the trash.

If you’re still relying on old-school methods to share links or contact info, you’re making things harder than they need to be for both you and your audience.

QR codes are fast, clean, and ridiculously easy to use. One scan, and boom—you’re exactly where you need to be.

They have become a modern-day bridge between the physical and digital worlds, letting users access links, contact details, payment gateways, or apps with a single scan.

Whether you’re sharing your portfolio, promoting a product, or connecting customers to your Wi-Fi, generating a QR code can make that experience fast, easy, and professional.

And if you’re a Mac user, you’re in luck—there are several slick ways to create QR codes without switching devices.

Try Parallels Desktop for Mac to get access to advanced tools like the barcode generator—perfect for professionals who want more from their Mac.

How to create a QR code on a Mac

Using the Chrome browser

If you’re using Google Chrome, generating a QR code is simple:

Click the three-dot menu (Customize and control Google Chrome) in the top-right corner of the browser.

From the dropdown, go to “Share” and then select “Create QR code.”

Chrome will generate a QR code for the current page, which you can download and use in documents, websites, or printed materials.

With the Shortcuts app (macOS)

On macOS, you can create a QR code by utilizing the built-in “Shortcuts” app.

Begin by opening the “Shortcuts” app and clicking the plus (+) button in the top-right corner to start a new shortcut.

In the search bar, type “QR” and select “Generate QR Code” from the results.

By default, this action generates a QR code from text input; however, you can modify it to use the clipboard content by clicking on “Text” and selecting “Clipboard” instead.

To save the generated QR code, add the “Save to Photo Album” action, which will store the image in your “Photos” app.

Once set up, you can copy any URL or text to your clipboard, run the shortcut, and the QR code will be automatically created and saved to your “Photos” library for easy access and sharing.

Using Parallels Desktop

Ready to generate your own personalized QR code on a Mac?

Parallels Desktop offers a dedicated barcode generator tool as part of its Toolbox.

This tool is ideal for users who want more customization or need to create QR and barcodes regularly as part of a broader workflow.

Whether you’re in marketing, design, education, or retail, these options make it easy to integrate QR codes into your day-to-day work—no advanced tech skills required.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step walkthrough using Parallels Desktop:

1. Locate the “Toolbox” icon 
2. Choose “Utilities” 
3. Click on “Barcode Generator” 
4. Enter the content or link you want to encode 
5. Click “Save” 

And just like that, you have a personalized QR code.

You can now add it to marketing materials, your website, or wherever it’s needed.

Are you more of a visual learner? Watch this YouTube tutorial to see how to generate a QR code.

What is a QR code?

Think of a QR code as a digital doorway that opens instantly with a quick scan from a smartphone or tablet.

A QR code, short for “Quick Response” code, is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a matrix of black squares on a white background.

Unlike traditional barcodes—like the ones you see on products at the grocery store—that are limited to horizontal data and typically hold only numeric values, QR codes can encode much more information.

This information includes URLs, plain text, contact details, payment information, and more.

What makes QR codes especially powerful is their versatility and speed.

They’re designed for fast readability and can be scanned from various angles and surfaces, making them ideal for both digital and physical environments.

In the mobile-first world of today, QR codes are everywhere—from product packaging and restaurant menus to event tickets and mobile payments.

For businesses, QR codes are about more than just convenience.

They’re dynamic tools for improving customer interaction, driving engagement, and supporting smooth digital integration.

Whether printed on packaging, embedded on a website, displayed on a storefront, or included in a presentation, QR codes create direct, frictionless pathways that help customers connect with your brand in seconds.

Why would you need to create a personalized barcode or QR code?

Personalized QR codes act as customizable touchpoints that align with your brand identity and amplify your reach.

By tailoring QR codes to your specific needs, you can turn everyday interactions into measurable, meaningful engagements.

Here are some of the most impactful ways to use personalized QR codes:

Marketing purposes

QR codes can transform traditional marketing into interactive experiences.

When added to posters, flyers, brochures, or print ads, they can direct viewers to digital content like landing pages, videos, product demos, or limited-time offers—bridging the gap between physical and digital marketing efforts.

Lead generation

Custom QR codes make it simple to capture new leads.

Link them to sign-up forms, surveys, or newsletter subscriptions to quickly grow your contact list.

They’re especially useful at trade shows, events, or retail locations where scanning a code is easier than typing a URL.

Payments

QR codes have become an increasingly popular method for contactless payments.

From small businesses to global retailers, brands use QR codes to link directly to platforms like PayPal, Venmo, or Stripe, creating a secure, easy checkout process—no cash, cards, or physical contact required.

Event check-in

Speed up entry and reduce event congestion by using QR codes for attendee check-in.

Simply send attendees a code beforehand, and scan it at the door for a touchless, efficient way to manage guest access.

Feedback collection

Gathering feedback is easier when you lower the barrier. Place QR codes on receipts, tables, or walls that link to simple feedback forms.

Customers can scan and share their thoughts immediately, improving your chances of receiving timely and honest reviews.

Customization

Stand out by customizing your QR codes with brand elements like logos, colors, and shapes.

Branded QR codes not only maintain functionality but also enhance visual appeal, reinforcing brand recognition wherever they’re seen.

Tracking and analytics

Dynamic QR codes can be updated with new content and provide real-time tracking data.

This tracking lets you measure how many times a code is scanned, when, and from where.

The insights gained can help refine campaigns, understand customer behavior, and make more informed business decisions.

Use cases for personalized QR codes

You’ve probably seen countless QR codes, but if you’re still wondering exactly what you can link one to, here’s a list of smart, practical uses that business owners and professionals can start using right away:

Downloading an app

What better way to get people to download your app than to lead them straight to it?

By using QR codes, you can send users directly to the App Store or Google Play to download your app. Perfect for SaaS businesses.

As a business card

Rather than handing out printed business cards, creating a digital version with a QR code can be much more effective.

It can mimic the layout of a traditional card while instantly sharing your contact details.
Compared to a printed card, it’s eco-friendly, modern, and always up to date.

Alternatively, if you still prefer using a printed business card, you can include a QR code that links directly to your website, portfolio, or contact information.

For sharing coupons

Distribute exclusive promotions via QR codes printed on receipts, ads, or product packaging.

Connect to Wi-Fi

How many times have you had to ask the barista to repeat the Wi-Fi password, just because you forgot to capitalize the “H” in Hg$wjwy!721ZeH?

Wi-Fi passwords are often complex for security reasons, but that complexity can make them frustratingly hard to remember.

Creating a QR code that allows guests to join your Wi-Fi network with a simple scan makes this so much simpler. It’s great for offices, cafés, and event spaces.

Link to a website

Send people straight to your homepage, online store, portfolio, or any specific webpage with a quick scan.

Whether it’s on a flyer, business card, or product packaging, a QR code makes it easy for someone to jump right to your site without having to type out a URL.

Contactless menus and payments

Ideal for restaurants, cafés, and bars, QR codes let customers instantly view your menu on their phones without the need for printed copies.

It’s a cleaner, more flexible option that’s easy to update anytime. You can also include a link to your payment system for quick, contactless checkout when needed.

Creating QR codes and other Parallels Desktop solutions for Mac users

QR codes have gone from a novelty to a necessity.

Whether you’re promoting a product, gathering feedback, or sharing contact information, creating personalized QR codes helps you stay relevant and efficient.

And for Mac users, especially those managing business operations or digital campaigns, having the right tool is key.

Parallels Desktop bridges the gap between Mac convenience and powerful tools, like the Mac barcode generator, that help your business thrive.

It’s intuitive, fast, and built with productivity in mind.

Ready to get started with creating a Mac QR code? Kick off your 14-day free trial of Parallels Desktop and begin generating in minutes.

The post How to generate a QR code on a Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Few things stir such loyalty in us these days as our tech choices. If you’re a Windows person, you’re a Windows user. If you’re a Mac user, you’re a proud Mac user.

This becomes problematic when you’re going through your class schedule and associated software requirements—and you realize your MacBook won’t be able to run that one specific program you need for your mandatory class.

Because it’s Windows only.

Luckily, there’s an easy way for you to access Windows apps on your Mac—one that doesn’t involve knowing how to go into your BIOS and install a separate operating system.

With Parallels Desktop Pro, you can run any app you’ll need for school on your Mac. Moving back and forth between operating systems like Windows is easy.

And as a bonus, there’s a 50% student discount, too. All you’ll need is a few minutes to register and your student credentials.

Try Parallels Desktop Pro for your Mac for free, and see how it can help you stay on top of your classwork!

What is Parallels Desktop Pro?

Parallels Desktop Pro is like an app switcher for your Mac. The only difference is that instead of switching apps, it switches operating systems.

This means you can run Windows within your existing Mac system without having to reboot and choose a different OS from the BIOS screen.

Parallels Desktop Pro runs a virtual machine equipped with Windows within a window on your Mac. This virtual machine uses a combination of your Mac’s resources and the extra CPU and RAM resources available through Parallels Desktop Pro to run your Windows-based software.

This way, you get all the flexibility and all the access without having to worry about whether your Mac has the resources for it.

In fact, Parallels Desktop Pro is both recognized and recommended by leading universities for the extra capabilities it gives students for their classwork.

Run Windows on your Mac when your coursework requires it

Your classes may come with software requirements that aren’t obvious at first.

You can use any word processor—but you’ll have to submit in .docx format.

You don’t create a presentation or a slide deck, you make a PowerPoint.

And even though these programs are available for Mac, you’ll often run into compatibility issues.

What’s more, some of them may have heavy CPU and RAM usage. Parallels Desktop Pro helps optimize your Mac for better performance, even under this type of demand.

Whether you need to use basic productivity software like Microsoft Office or you’re running something more intense like Azure, Creative Cloud, AutoCAD, or even an e-learning app for a remote class, Parallels Desktop Pro helps you make it happen.

Want to see the possibilities? Explore more apps available to run on your Mac through Parallels Desktop Pro on our apps page.

Learn web development on your Mac

Have a coding class that requires using Visual Studio Code? Parallels Desktop Pro can help.

It unlocks access to essentials for cross-platform coding, including Microsoft-only applications you may need for class.

On top of that, Parallels Desktop Pro comes with useful tools to help you learn. Along with a GitHub integration and the innate ability to help you test on different OSs, it includes an AI package designed to help you learn to work with AI systems in your projects.

Use your Mac for engineering, design, and architecture classes

Need to work with ArcGISPro data for an urban planning project? Creating and editing 3D building models in AutoCAD? Modeling machine components in SOLIDWORKS?

Parallels Desktop Pro helps you stay on top of all your AEC and design courses with access to Windows and Windows-only software.

Reward yourself with a gaming break on your Mac

Finished all your coursework and want to take a little decompression break?

Parallels Desktop Pro also helps you access Windows-first video games like League of Legends, Age of Empires, Rocket League, Assassin’s Creed, and more.

After all, we all know that even if they do support Mac, it often just isn’t the same. Keybinds don’t line up, servers don’t connect properly, clients don’t launch…the list goes on.

Not done, and want to take a break anyway? We won’t tell if you don’t.

Make the most of your Mac’s functionality

Want to get more familiar with your Mac’s built-in functionality? Let’s go over the basics—here’s how to do (almost) everything on your Mac.

How to zip files on a Mac

Zipped files are smaller, which makes them useful for sending or transferring large files like presentations and designs.

If you need to send a zipped file in the middle of a group project, use our quick guide to learn how. You’ll learn how to create compressed folders, decompress them, and access the files within.

How to check storage and free up disk space on a Mac

Finding your Mac bogged down with file storage? A crammed hard drive can affect overall performance, too.

Use our quick guide to discover how you can see how full your Mac’s storage is and free up disk space. That way, you can keep working and studying without interruptions.

How to screen capture on a Mac

Screen recording and screen capturing are great methods for filling in design-heavy projects. You may also find that you need to know how to create them for some project submissions.

If you want to learn how to take screenshots and recordings on your Mac, head over to this guide. You’ll learn the steps of capturing, as well as different methods for getting the right shot.

How to zoom in and out on a Mac

Zooming in and out on a laptop screen is a useful feature for accessibility and app management. It’s not very clear how to do it on a Mac, though.

If you find yourself needing to zoom in or out on your Mac to make your screen more manageable, check out our quick guide on how to do it easily.

How to find and delete duplicate files on a Mac

Duplicate files, while useful as temporary backups so you don’t lose that big assignment, can bog down your Mac’s storage.

Use this quick guide to learn how to locate and remove duplicate files on your Mac.

How to lock the screen on a Mac

Screen locks are a great way to protect sensitive files on your Mac. They may also help guard against some forms of hazards like removeable media attacks in common areas or coffee shops on campus.

If you’re looking to learn how to lock your Mac’s screen, check out this guide for a full explanation.

How to force quit on a Mac

Sometimes, apps just stop working, which can interrupt a last-minute cram session. If they won’t shut down so you can restart them, you’ll need to force quit.

You can learn how to force quit apps that stop responding on your Mac in this guide.

How to use airplane mode on a Mac

If you find yourself stuck on campus without access to a power outlet, airplane mode can come in handy. It can help extend your Mac’s low battery life until you can charge it.

Of course, it has other uses, too—so if you need to learn how to use airplane mode, read through our guide.

How do I get started with Parallels Desktop Pro on my Mac?

So you’re ready to start up Parallels Desktop Pro on your Mac? No problem—the process is simple enough.

1. Know what you need to install

You can always expand this list later, but for now, note any programs you know you’ll need for your courses.

2. Set up your virtual machine

Once you’ve installed Parallels Desktop Pro on your Mac, you can use it to create a virtual machine to run your Windows instance.

Just boot up Parallels Desktop Pro and select the option to install Windows from Microsoft for your machine (you’ll need a license). There’s also a full guide to this process on our knowledge base to help you.

3. Set up your software

Once your machine is up and running, install your course software within your Windows environment. You can also customize your virtual machine’s settings to make sure you have enough RAM, CPU, and storage allocated.

4. Create a snapshot for rollback purposes

As with any computer process, you’ll want to create a snapshot of your virtual machine. This is your backup, so if something goes sideways, you can restore it to a stable state.

5. Take it for a test run

Once you’ve installed and set up everything, test your new apps to make sure they’re running as you want them to.

For a little extra fun, try Coherence mode in Parallels Desktop Pro. It runs Windows apps directly in Mac windows, so it all looks like one operating system.

Get ready to ace your classes with Parallels Desktop Pro

There’s nothing like being prepared. Take on the school year with confidence and show up in fully prepared fashion with Parallels Desktop Pro for your Mac.

Start your 14-day free trial today, and don’t forget to take advantage of the student discount available to you!

The post Start the school year off right! Save time and get more done with Parallels Desktop Pro for your Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

As part of the Parallels team, I’m always listening to our users and working to make your experience better.

With the latest update (20.3.0), Parallels Desktop introduces several powerful new enhancements for users—from video creators and streamers who need more flexibility for their broadcasts to IT admins and developers who need more control over their devices.

Let’s dive in!

Ready for a closer look at everything that’s new in Parallels Desktop 20.3.0? Start your free trial today.

New x86_64 emulation capabilities

First up, I’d like to say thank you to the talented folks at FEX, an open-source emulator that runs x86 games and other apps on ARM64 hardware. Their product is the basis for the new emulation engine in Parallels Desktop.

Let me also say thank you to every one of you who used the emulation engine and shared your feedback.

We released the 20.2.1 update earlier this year, addressing a popular issue related to the inability to create x86_64 machines on Apple silicon Macs with M4 chips.

We included a preview in our 20.2 update for early adopters, and now, the 20.3.0 update delivers a fix for x86_64 Linux virtual machines that can be imported without serious issues like freezes or crashes.

Support for macOS OBS virtual camera in Windows

Most of you are familiar with OBS (Open Broadcaster Software), the popular open-source broadcasting software.

Many users have expressed that they’d like to use an OBS virtual camera setup on their Mac inside a Windows virtual machine for apps like Zoom or Microsoft Teams—but until now, that wasn’t possible.

With Parallels Desktop 20.3.0, the OBS virtual camera feature in macOS is available inside your Windows virtual machine (VM).

This means you can now select your OBS feed in Windows apps—giving you more control over how your livestreams look and function.

Watch the video below for a quick look at how you can use and customize the OBS virtual camera in software like Microsoft Teams.

USB device support for macOS VMs on Apple silicon Macs

Imagine you’re a developer testing an app, an IT admin configuring security keys, or a tech enthusiast experimenting with macOS in a virtual environment.

You boot up your macOS VM on an Apple silicon Mac, plug in your USB device—and nothing happens.

Not the best experience, right?

For the longest time, macOS VMs on Apple silicon Macs simply couldn’t recognize USB devices.

This meant security professionals couldn’t test authentication keys, developers couldn’t debug hardware-dependent software, and testers couldn’t validate device compatibility.

That changes with Parallels Desktop 20.3.0!

Thanks to the adjustments introduced in Apple’s framework with macOS 15, USB passthrough is now a reality for macOS VMs on Apple silicon.

With 20.3.0, you can connect a range of external USB devices directly to your macOS VM, unlocking new workflows for development, security testing, and beyond.

Heads up: While many USB devices are now supported, audio devices and iPhones are not at the moment. Additionally, this feature is only available on Macs running macOS 15 or higher.

Improved Mac support for the Dragon Medical One app

Clinicians using Parallels Desktop can now dictate with Dragon Medical One in a Windows virtual machine and have the text appear directly in a macOS app.

This works in Coherence view mode and is triggered by a set action—like pressing a button on a Nuance PowerMic.

Previously, dictated text could only be used in Windows apps, which limited cross-platform workflows.

Now, clinicians can enter notes in Mac apps without switching devices or copying text between systems.

We’re continuing to improve the Dragon Medical One integration for Parallels Desktop, with more updates on the way.

Enhanced activation control for managed Macs

In Parallels Desktop 20.2, we introduced new activation management features to help IT admins speed up software deployment on managed Macs.

By using MDM configuration profiles, admins could define whether users activate Parallels Desktop with SSO or a license key, reducing confusion and support requests.

Now, we’re taking it a step further.

With this update, IT admins can enforce SSO activation as the only method for managed Macs.

Once admins deploy this configuration profile, users will no longer be able to activate Parallels Desktop with a license key or trial—ensuring strict compliance with organizational policies.

Even if a user uninstalls and reinstalls the software, the system will continue to require SSO activation from the start.

This added level of control means fewer activation-related tickets for IT teams and a smoother onboarding process for end users.

Touch ID to authenticate Parallels Desktop installation

We know that manually entering your Mac admin password can be a hassle.

That was something we all had to do when installing and managing Parallels Desktop settings locked with a Mac admin password on Macs with macOS 15.

Now, you can simply use Touch ID to authenticate, making installation and settings management more convenient in Parallels Desktop.

New to Parallels Desktop for Mac? Get your 14-day free trial of Parallels Desktop Pro Edition now. 

Updates for Parallels Desktop Enterprise customers

If you’re an Enterprise user, look out for future updates about the new Lock VM feature and the Parallels Desktop configuration profile in the Jamf library, along with much more!

The post Introducing Parallels Desktop 20.3: x86_64 emulation, OBS virtual camera support, USB device support, and more appeared first on Parallels Blog.

As organizations grow and evolve, IT admins are making it a priority to manage secure and efficient access to applications and data.

Single sign-on (SSO) capabilities make it simple for users to access their resources while maintaining high security standards.

For companies using Parallels Desktop, SSO integration provides a way to manage virtual machine (VM) environments across a wide range of devices without sacrificing security or user experience.

Let’s take a closer look at how Parallels Desktop uses SSO for access management—and why it’s a major shift for IT departments.

Ready to learn more? Get your free trial of Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition to start enhancing your virtual environment management with SSO.

How does SSO work?

SSO is a method of authentication that gives users the ability to log into multiple applications and sites with one set of credentials.

The idea is to make it simple for users to access what they need without compromising data privacy—and without causing password fatigue.

Here’s a quick look at how it works:

1. The organization sets up SSO

When implementing SSO, an organization will register users with their identity provider (IdP), as well as the sites and apps—referred to as service providers (SPs) for this use case—that will use the SSO.

2. The user signs in on a service provider

When users sign in, SPs will create an SSO token based on that user’s identity. It will then send an authentication request with that information to the IdP.

3. The IdP authenticates the user

After receiving a request, the IdP checks if the user has already been authenticated and sends this information back to the SP. If they have been authenticated, the user will get access. If not, they’ll be redirected to their SSO login page.

4. The user can access their sites and apps

Because SSO systems store information for multiple SPs, one login simultaneously authenticates the user for each SP. This way, users won’t have to log into each SP separately.

Additionally, most SSO systems come with the option for users to stay logged in for a set period of time.

What is an identity provider (IdP)?

IdPs are secure third-party systems that specialize in managing SSO authentication requests on behalf of the organization.

Parallels Desktop can be configured to connect with your organization’s IdP for secure access to VMs.

This way, users can access Parallels Desktop with their existing SSO credentials.

It also allows IT administrators to set policies and access controls for Parallels Desktop through the IdP—so they can do things like enforce multi-factor authentication or restrict access to certain VMs based on user roles.

How Parallels Desktop integrates with identity providers

Here’s how this process looks with common IdP solutions that Parallels Desktop version 20.3 integrates with, including Microsoft Entra ID, Ping Identity, Google Workspace, and JumpCloud.

Microsoft Entra ID, Ping Identity, Google Workspace, and JumpCloud

Integrating Parallels Desktop for Business and Parallels Business for Enterprise with IdPs generally takes three steps:

1. Register your organization’s Parallels Desktop license key in the Parallels My Account service portal to access the IdP integration menu.
2. Configure the integrations for SSO/SAML 2.0 and Provisioning/SCIM 2.0 between Parallels My Account and your IdP.
3. Send users a link to download and install Parallels Desktop preconfigured with your organization’s SSO.

Note: Microsoft Azure is also known now as Microsoft Entra ID.

Depending on your IdP, these steps may involve slight nuances. You can find more information on how to integrate Parallels Desktop with your IdP of choice in these guides:

• How to integrate Parallels Desktop with Microsoft Entra ID/Microsoft Azure
• How to integrate Parallels Desktop with Ping Identity
• How to integrate Parallels Desktop with JumpCloud

Okta

Okta can integrate with Parallels Desktop for Business and Parallels Desktop for Enterprise in five steps.

1. Register your organization’s domains with Parallels Desktop in your Parallels My Account service portal.
2. Register your Parallels Desktop application with Okta in your IdP management portal.
3. Configure user groups associated with Parallels Desktop in your IdP management portal to determine user access levels.
4. Configure the integrations for SSO/SAML 2.0 and Provisioning/SCIM 2.0 between Parallels My Account and Okta.
5. Add users to the right user groups set up in Step 3 in your IdP management portal.

You can find more information on how to integrate Parallels Desktop with Okta in our knowledge base documentation.

How is SSO different from MFA?

Where SSO is about making it simple for users to log into the various service providers (SPs) they need for their work, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is about security.

MFA adds an extra layer of security to a user’s login credentials. It requires the user to take an additional step like entering a code from an authenticator app to verify their identity.

Organizations will often use MFA and SSO together, one to simplify access and the other to ensure that simplified access is secure.

What are the benefits of SSO for an organization?

While SSO is designed to simplify the end user’s experience when accessing SPs, it also has some important benefits for the organization.

Reduced password fatigue

An estimate from 2021 showed that the average employee deals with 191 passwords in their work—which can lead to two problems.

• When resetting passwords, they may be more likely to choose variations or previously used passwords
• They may store passwords in unsafe places, like their browser’s password manager or an unlocked file

Introducing SSO removes the weight of so many passwords, which can encourage employees to be safer with the ones they have.

Decreased attack surfaces

The same study estimates that, on average, a company with 250 employees deals with over 47,000 passwords—each of which is its own attack surface.

If even one of those passwords gets compromised, a hacker can access the organization’s sensitive data.

Reducing the number of passwords used also means minimizing the opportunities for web-based attacks.

Simpler user access

One of the primary advantages of SSO is the simplified user experience it provides.  

With SSO, employees can use their existing corporate credentials to access everything registered with their IdP.

For Parallels Desktop users, this includes any virtual machines they need to use.

Increased productivity for end users

Simpler access to multiple SPs means users spend less time inputting passwords and authentication codes.

This introduces a smoother workflow for both new hires and seasoned staff, allowing them to get to work without delay.

Simpler management for IT administrators

Managing user accounts across various applications can be just as tedious for admins as remembering passwords is for end users.

With Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition and its SSO capabilities, admins can manage access to Parallels Desktop and other applications from a single centralized platform.

When employees leave or change roles, admins can adjust or revoke their access to Parallels Desktop too—simplifying the offboarding process and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

User access auditing and monitoring

Because SSO systems log all access in one place, IT admins can quickly see who’s logged in, when, where, and on which device.

This can help identify potential unauthorized access faster.

Future-proofing your IT setup

SSO is designed to make it simpler for users to access their software, for IT admins to monitor and manage the system, and for organizations to protect against unnecessary access points.

This all contributes to an IT setup that can grow with the business.

Using SSO integration with Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition

Integrating SSO with Parallels Desktop provides a seamless and secure way to manage access to virtual machines.

It simplifies the user experience, strengthens security, and reduces the administrative burden on IT teams.

As your organization grows, using SSO will ensure that your virtual environments remain secure, accessible, and efficient for everyone in your company.

Setting up SSO activation for Parallels Desktop with MDM

Parallels Desktop allows IT admins to set SSO as the activation method for their MDM configuration profiles.

This way, users won’t need license keys or trials for Parallels Desktop.

Even if the software is uninstalled or reinstalled, users can log in using their SSO credentials. This gives IT teams better control over license key and trial activations and reduces the extra workload from activation-related support requests.

Enhancing security and efficiency with SSO

Using SSO with Parallels Desktop brings secure, simple access to essential apps, data, and virtual machines to an organization’s users.

With Parallels 20.3, organizations have more SSO options and flexibility than ever.

Learn more about how you can set up and deploy SSO with Parallels Desktop for Business and Parallels Desktop for Enterprise today.

The post Cut the clutter: Streamline access to Parallels Desktop with SSO appeared first on Parallels Blog.

The saying “a picture is worth a thousand words,” may need to be updated to say that a screen capture or screen shot says a thousand words, because so many professionals rely on their Macs to capture an image or video of their screens to share. 

If you are a Mac user who’s looking for the quickest, most straightforward way to take screen captures and screenshots on Mac, I’ve got you covered.  

Ready to capture screens and snap screenshots on your Mac? Get started with Parallels Desktop with a 14-day free trial.   

5 ways to take a screenshot on Mac 

There are five ways you can capture screenshots using your Mac.  

Unlocking your Mac’s full potential goes beyond knowing how to open a browser and finding your favorite apps.   

Learning how to capture and share what’s on your screen effectively can streamline your workflow, improve collaboration, and help you share your creativity.   

Let’s look at several methods for capturing screenshots on your Mac like a pro.   

1. Capture a portion of your screen   

The simplest and most commonly used way to capture a screenshot is to use the Command-Shift-4 keyboard shortcut.  

This method is like the snipping tool you may be familiar with from using PCs.   

Here is how to take a screenshot of a portion of your screen on Mac:    

Press Command-Shift-4 to change the pointer to a crosshair.  

Select the area of the screen you want to capture by dragging the cursor.  

After releasing the mouse button, the screenshot appears as a PNG image on your desktop.   

You can use it as a supporting image in a blog or social media site or send it as an email attachment.   

2. Capture your entire screen 

This shortcut captures your entire screen, making it useful when you want to show what’s happening on your screen or share an error with IT support.   

Other tabs and chat boxes will be visible in the screenshot, so be sure to close out anything that you don’t intend to share.  

Here’s how to take a screenshot of your entire screen on Mac:  

Press Command-Shift-3 to take a screenshot of the entire screen.  

The screenshot will appear as a PNG image on your desktop.  

You can then upload it to a messaging platform like Slack or Teams or add it to an email.   

3. Take a screenshot of a single active window 

Highlight a dynamic feature, like the menu bar with an item selected.   

Active screenshots are great for creating tutorials, documenting interactions with software or websites, or similar dynamic processes.   

Here’s how to copy a screenshot of an active page on Mac:  

• Press Command-Shift-4 to change a pointer to a crosshair.  

• Tap on the spacebar on your keyboard. The cursor will change to the camera icon.  

• Select the active application window you want to capture by moving your cursor and highlighting the active window.   

• Click the mouse button on the window you want to capture. The screenshot will appear as a PNG image on your desktop.  

Alternatively, you can paste the screenshot by navigating to the location you want to share the image (Slack, Teams, etc.) and press Command-V.  

4. Customize your screenshot or record your screen  

This shortcut lets you capture a customized screenshot by selecting the size or window to screenshot. It also gives you easy access to the recording button.   

Here’s how to customize your screen or record on your screen on Mac:    

• Press Command-Shift-5. A clip box with a white-gloved hand will appear on your screen   

• Drag the corners of the box to select the sections you want to screenshot.   

• Use the options at the bottom to adjust your screenshot. Select the entire screen, choose a different window, or use the recording button to take a video of all or a portion of your screen.   

The screenshot or recording file will appear on your desktop.    

5. Take a screenshot of your Touch Bar (if available) 

In some cases, you may need to take a screenshot of the items in your Touch Bar.   

While this is a less common application, it can be helpful if you are working with IT support or writing a detailed tutorial.   

Here’s how to take a screenshot of the Touch Bar on a Mac:  

• Open System Preferences and select Keyboard. 

• Click on “Customize Control Strip” and drag the Screenshot button to your Touch Bar. 

Use this button to take screenshots as needed. 

How to screen capture an active window on a Mac 

Using the screenshot menu 

You can screen capture an active window by performing the following steps: 

• Open the Mac screenshot menu by pressing Shift + Command + 5. 

• A small bar will appear at the bottom left of the screen with three icons. Choose whether to screen capture a specific window, a highlighted section, or an entire screen. 

• Click the “capture” button when you’ve selected the area you want. 

• Choose where you’d like to save the screen capture, the length of time you want to record, and more in the Options menu. 

Without using the screenshot menu 

If you’d like to take a screen capture in an active window without using the screenshot menu, follow these steps: 

• Click Shift + Command + 4. 

• Click and drag the crosshair cursor to create a highlighted section. When you let go of the mouse, you’ll have the screen capture on your Mac’s desktop. 

How to take a screen recording on a Mac 

There are several ways to take a screen recording on your Mac. 

Using the Screenshot toolbar 

• Press Shift + Command + 5 to record the entire screen, a portion that you select, or a still image.  

• Click “Record Entire Screen” or “Record Selected Portion” option. 

• When you’re ready, click “Record” or press Command + Control + ESC to stop recording.  

Using the QuickTime player 

You can also take a screen recording using the QuickTime player.  

• Start by opening the QuickTime player.  

• Select File > New Screen Recording. This will bring up the screen recording toolbar.  

• Use the options menu to choose what to record, including the area you want to record or the entire screen. You’ll have to select the area prior to clicking the record button. 

• You can also choose to use your own voice over with the built-in microphone or if you want mouse clicks to show in the recording.  

• Choose where to save the recording at this point as well.  

• To begin, click the record button. To stop the recording, click the stop button or press Command + Control + Esc.  

How to use the snipping tool for a Mac Screen capture 

To use the built-in snipping tool on a Mac, you can use the following keyboard shortcuts or the Screenshot app. 

Keyboard shortcuts 

• Command + Shift + 3 = capture the entire screen and save to the desktop 

• Command + Shift + 4 = capture only a selection portion of the screen 

• Command + Shift + 4 + Space = capture a window.  

Press the Control key combined with any of the above screenshot shortcuts to save the screen capture to the clipboard.  

Using the Screenshot app 

To use the Screenshot app to access the Snipping tool on Mac, open the app and select whether to capture or record.  

Click on Options to set a length of time to record and where to save the file.  

Click capture or record to start and stop to finish.  

Editing screen captures on a Mac 

To edit the screen captures you take on a Mac, right click on the screenshot or capture and choose to open it with Preview.  

From there, you can crop, mark up, resize, or otherwise annotate the screenshot. 

What happens if the screen capture area tool or screenshot app isn’t working on macOS?   

Sometimes the keyboard shortcuts may not work on your Mac.  

You press the buttons or make the right clicks, but nothing happens.   

There are a few reasons why this might happen — and it’s usually related to your settings.   

Parallels Desktop users, for example, may find that updating their MacOS makes tools that worked previously stop working.   

In this case, you’ll need to give Parallels Desktop permission to record the screen.  

If you are a Mac user, the issue might be your system settings. Start by navigating to the Apple menu, then select:     

System setting > Keyboard > Keyboard shortcuts > Screenshots  

Make sure all the items on the list are checked off. Try the shortcuts above again, and you’ll likely find they work.   

How do you take a screenshot on a Mac without pressing buttons?   

What if you don’t have a keyboard or your keyboard isn’t working?  

Good news—you can still take a screenshot using just your mouse!   

Here’s how:   

• Select the Finder icon in your Dock (that’s the little blue and gray face).   

• Choose “Applications,” then find the “Utilities” folder.   

• Within the Utilities folder, you’ll see a camera icon labeled “Screenshot.” Double click.   

• The tool will open, allowing you to use the same options as Command-Shift-5, including adjusting your screenshot, taking a recording, and other actions.    

Another option is to add a screenshot tool to your Touch Bar:   

• Navigate to System Preferences > Keyboard > Customize Control Strip.   

• Drag and drop the screenshot button to the Touch Bar.   

How to save your screenshots and screen captures directly to your clipboard on Mac  

Want to save your screenshots to your clipboard to copy and paste elsewhere? You can save your screenshots directly to your clipboard instead of saving them as files on your desktop.  

This is useful if you want to paste the screenshot into another application, such as an email, document, or image editor.  

Here’s how to do it:  

• To capture your entire screen and save it to your clipboard, press Control + Shift + Command + 3.  

• For a selected portion, press Control + Shift + Command + 4, then select the desired area.   

• For a specific window, press Control + Shift + Command + 4, then press the Spacebar, then click the window.   

Then you can paste the screenshot into your document or image editor using Command + V. 

Why would you need to capture your screen or take a screenshot on a Mac? 

Taking a screenshot on a Mac is easier than ordering takeout, thanks to the different shortcuts offered.   

With just a few taps, you can take a screen capture to share with coworkers, add to a blog post, or save a favorite image or photo.  

You can use screenshots, screen captures, or screen recordings to help troubleshoot technical issues, or create tutorials, demos, and how-to guides. 

Screen captures facilitate connection and engagement. Your audience sees what you see.  

Technical teams, such as developers collaborating on code or app testing, can provide instant feedback and address gaps in performance or functionality. 

Sending a screen capture reduces time and frustration attempting to both describe and understand a problem for a team member and the IT department.  

Demonstrating workflows, features, and user interfaces in a recording are more effective and appealing for both internal and external users, because they can understand how things are done by seeing it happen.  

Streamline your day by mastering the Mac screenshot or screen capture 

The screenshot and screen capture option on Macs are a simple but essential process. Knowing how to quickly snag a screen capture helps improve collaboration at work, trouble technical issues, or share moments of creativity. Or just to save a hilarious picture or meme for later!  

Knowing these shortcuts and screenshot tricks will help you work faster and more efficiently.   

Ready to capture screens and snap screenshots on your Mac? Get started with Parallels Desktop with a 14-day free trial.   

Interested in learning more about using Macs? Check out our other related articles:  

• How to force quit unresponsive apps on your Mac 

• How to check storage and free up disk space on your Mac 

• How to zoom in and out on Mac 

• How to zip and unzip files on a Mac 

• How to find and remove duplicate files on Mac 

The post How to capture screenshots and take screen recordings on your Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

If you own a Mac, you have probably used it for work or play outside your home at least once. 

You might have left your laptop on a desk or table unattended while taking a break, thinking, “What’s the worst that can happen? No one knows my password.” 

If you recognize this scenario—this blog is for you. 

Simply shutting down your computer or closing your laptop screen is not enough to keep your Mac safe from passersby.  

However, using the Mac lock screen feature is. 

The Mac lock screen feature is a security measure that allows you to lock your Mac down so others cannot access your files, applications, and data when you step away from your laptop.  

Keep your Mac safe with Parallels Desktop. Get your 14-day free trial today. 

Why would you need to lock the screen on a Mac? 

Improving the security of your Mac, including the data and files stored on it, is the main reason why you need to lock the screen.  

Here are some scenarios where using the lock screen can be especially beneficial… 

Protecting sensitive files or data when using your computer in a public place or shared setting 

If you’re working in a public place, a shared office, or anywhere other people may access your laptop, a lock screen is highly recommended. 

When you lock the screen on your Mac, it prevents prying eyes from accessing your data and files if you step away and leave your laptop behind. 

Avoiding disruptions in your workflow 

If you step away from your desk to take a call or grab a coffee, locking your screen can help prevent unauthorized access that might disrupt your workflow.   

If you leave your Mac unattended without a lock screen enabled, people can modify your work, close applications or interfere with your progress while you’re away. 

Interruptions like these can impact your productivity and cause errors in your work, which is why using a lock screen is an important precaution when using your Mac for work. 

Troubleshooting technical issues   

If you’re experiencing technical issues that you want to troubleshoot, you may need to take screenshots or screen recordings to show the problem. 

Because you may take screenshots of sensitive information for troubleshooting, you don’t want others to be able to peep at those details if you step away from your Mac. 

Locking your screen prevents that from happening. 

Depending on the tool, locking your screen during a remote support session also ensures that the session remains private. 

Ensuring compliance with company policies 

It could be that your organization simply mandates employees to lock their screens when away from their desks.  

They can require this based on the security it provides in the abovementioned scenarios. 

How to lock the screen on a Mac 

There are a couple of ways to activate the lock screen on your Mac. Here’s how to do it. 

1. Using the Apple menu option 

Access the Mac lock screen shortcut by clicking the Apple icon. 
 
Select “Lock Screen” on the dropdown menu. The login window will automatically appear on display. 

2. Using the keyboard 

Press and hold Command, Control, and Q simultaneously. That will automatically lock your screen. 

How to lock the screen on a Mac with Parallels Desktop 

To set up lock screen on your Mac using Parallels software, follow these steps:  

1. Launch the Parallels Toolbox, and navigate to the “Library” tab. 
 

2. Select “System” located above the menu list. 
 

3. Choose “Lock Screen”, and the login window will immediately appear on the screen. 

How to lock the screen on a Windows virtual machine on a Mac with Parallels Desktop 

You can still use the lock screen feature if you’re working on a Mac in a Windows environment through Parallels Desktop.  

There are three ways to turn on Windows lock screen on your laptop: 

1. Using the keyboard shortcuts 

Method 1: Press the Command key and the L key simultaneously to activate the lock screen. 

Method 2: Hold down Ctrl, Option, and Del simultaneously. Several options will be displayed on the screen. Press “Lock” to activate the lock screen. 

2. Using the “Start Menu” 

Start by clicking the “Start Menu”.  

Continue to the power button where a menu will pop up. From there, choose “Lock” on the menu list. 

How does the lock screen capability protect my Mac? 

Locking the screen on your Mac is an important security measure that helps protect your data and privacy.  

Here are some reasons why this capability enhances your Mac security: 

Password protection 

When using the lock screen feature, you will be prompted to enter a password or verify through another authentication method to gain access. 

This requirement prevents users other than yourself from accessing your files, applications, and personal information if you step away from your Mac.   

Screen saver 

When you turn on lockscreen on a Mac, it adds an extra layer of security. When you’re inactive, the screen saver will activate and lock your Mac automatically.  

That helps protect your data if you forget to manually lock your screen when you step away. 

Lock screen settings 

Customizing your lock screen settings lets you control how and when your Mac locks.  

You can set a specific time interval for automatic locking or require a password immediately after the screen saver starts.  

These settings ensure that your Mac is always protected according to your preferences. 

Remote locking 

If your Mac is lost or stolen, you can secure it by remote locking.  

Services like “Find My” allow you to lock your Mac remotely, preventing anyone from accessing your data.  

Custom message 

Adding a custom message to your lock screen can be helpful in case your Mac is lost.  

This message can include contact information or instructions for returning the device.  

While this doesn’t directly improve security, it can be a helping hand in the recovery of your Mac and ensure that it is returned to you safely. 

Why should I use a password to protect my Mac? 

When you lock your screen, it requires a password or other authentication method to regain access.  

This requirement prevents unauthorized users from accessing your files, applications, and personal information. 

Make sure that the password your Mac prompts you to enter on the lock screen is strong to enhance your security even more. 

Here are some additional steps to further protect your Mac: 
 

Protect multiple users 

If your Mac is used by several people, creating separate user accounts for each person is recommended.  

In that way, others cannot access your information or files when using the same Mac. 
 

Turn off automatic login 

By requiring a password to be entered at every login, you minimize the risk of unauthorized access, as no one will automatically be logged in.  

You can turn this feature off in the “Users & Group” settings. 
 

Use two-factor authentication 

In the event of your password being leaked, two-factor authentication can help protect your Apple ID, as entering the password won’t be enough for someone to be able to login. 
 

Use a password manager 

Creating and storing strong passwords becomes simple with a password manager.  

It helps you maintain your Mac’s security by reducing the risk of using and reusing weak passwords across your accounts and applications. 
 

Use a VPN 

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and keeps your IP address anonymous, which protects your data when you use public Wi-Fi or other unsecured networks.  

As such, your sensitive information, such as passwords and browsing activity, is kept private and safe.  
 

Avoid downloading software from unknown sources 

To avoid downloading malware, only choose downloads from registered developers.  

That is the only way to be certain that you can trust the sender and what the download contains. 
 

Use “Find My Mac” 

If your Mac gets stolen or lost, “Find My Mac” can help you remotely lock it.   

That means even if someone else gets a hold of your laptop, they can’t get access to your files and applications. 

How do I set up a password to lock the screen of my Mac? 

Have I convinced you that setting up a password to lock your screen is a good idea?  

Great! Here’s how you do it. 

1. Open “System Settings” 

Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen. Select “System Settings” from the dropdown menu. 

2. Go to “Lock screen” 

In the “System Settings” window, click on “Lock screen.”  

3. Select “Require password after screen saver begins or display is turned off” 

Under the “Lock Screen” tab, click on “Require password after screen saver begins or display is turned off.”  

Choose the time interval for when the password is required (e.g., immediately, 5 seconds, 1 minute). 

4. Test your settings 

Activate your screen saver or put your Mac to sleep. Wake your Mac and ensure that it prompts you for the password you set. 

Put yourself at ease by turning your Mac screen to sleep with Parallels Desktop 

Using the lock screen feature keeps your Mac safe.  

This process includes choosing a strong password, disabling automatic login, activating two-factor authentication, and Find My Mac.   

When paired with Parallels Desktop, you can maximize your Mac’s security without sacrificing the user experience.  

Parallels Desktop provides a smooth and secure way to switch between platforms or access work tools while keeping your data safe.  

Try it for free for 14 days and experience the enhanced security first-hand. 

The post How to lock the screen on a Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Airplane Mode disables all wireless connections or radio signals on your Mac, which is why it is primarily suggested when you’re using a Mac while flying.  

Beyond its primary use, there are other reasons to turn on Airplane Mode, including saving battery life, disabling Bluetooth and GPS tracking, avoiding distractions, or preventing your Mac from automatically connecting to potentially problematic insecure networks. 

Discover how to use Airplane Mode on a Mac, troubleshoot issues with virtual machines (VMs), and improve productivity.  

Ready to start using Airplane Mode on your Mac? Get started with Parallels Desktop with a 14-day free trial.   

How to turn on Airplane Mode in macOS 

There are two different ways to turn on or enable Airplane Mode on a MacBook, whether from the Menu Bar or System Preferences.  

How to use the Menu Bar to turn on Airplane Mode on Mac 

1. Click on the Wi-Fi symbol on the right side of your Menu Bar. 

2. Move the slider to the left so the bar turns white or select “Turn Wi-Fi off.” 

3. Open Wi-Fi settings and click on the Bluetooth symbol on the upper left side.  

4. Move the slider to the left so the bar turns white or select “Turn Bluetooth off.” 

You’re in Airplane Mode!  

How to turn on Airplane Mode in Mac’s System Preferences  

1. Click on the Apple symbol in the Menu Bar.  

2. Select System Preferences or System Settings. 

3. Click “Network”. 

4. Move the slider to the left so the bar turns white or select “Turn Wi-Fi off.”  

5. Click the back button, then click on the Bluetooth symbol. 

6. Select “Turn Bluetooth off.”  

You are now in Airplane Mode! 

How to turn off Airplane Mode in macOS 

You can simply perform the previous steps in reverse to turn off Airplane Mode in macOS. 

To disable Airplane Mode from the Menu Bar, go to the Wi-Fi symbol in the top right and select “Turn on Wi-Fi,” or move the slider to the right so the bar turns blue.  

Perform the same steps for Bluetooth. 

To disable Airplane Mode from System Preferences or Settings, open System Preferences and select Network.  

Click on “Wi-Fi” and select “Turn on Wi-Fi” or move the slider bar to the right so it turns blue.  

Do the same steps for Bluetooth. 

You are out of Airplane Mode! 

Pro tip: You can also turn off Wi-Fi before getting on a plane to connect and continue using your iPhone’s hotspot until takeoff.  

Troubleshooting Airplane Mode on a Mac with VMs  

If you are running virtual machines on your Mac, then turning off internet access or putting it in Airplane Mode follows the same processes as above.  

The VMs have a virtual network interface card or NIC link linked to a virtual cable to a virtual network commutator that’s connected to the physical host network card or network adapter.  

Here’s how to turn off the internet to your VMs or put your VMs in airplane mode: 

H3: Option 1: Disconnect the virtual cable 

Disconnect the virtual cable from the virtual NIC by clicking on the Devices -> Network -> Disconnect on the top Mac menu.  

H3 Option 2: Use Parallels Desktop for Airplane Mode 

If you have Parallels Desktop installed on your MacBook, you can use Parallels Toolbox for Mac -> Airplane Mode to turn off all wireless communications on your Mac. 

When do you need to use Airplane Mode on a Mac? 

While using Airplane Mode while you’re in the air is the most common use case and what this function was designed for, there are other times or reasons that Airplane Mode on a Mac can be useful.  

When flying 

You should use Airplane Mode on your Mac while flying on a plane. This mode prevents radio signals from your device from interfering with the plane’s navigation and radar equipment.  

It’s also a legal requirement to use Airplane Mode on your Mac or other devices (such as iPhone, iPad, or another type of tablet or smartphone) while flying. 

When reducing distractions 

If you don’t need internet access to be productive, you can turn on Airplane Mode to remove distractions.  

Airplane Mode is essential when traveling or working in sensitive environments 

Airplane Mode is a useful option when you’re taking your Mac on a trip or working offline.   

Airplane Mode is useful for protecting your MacBook from malicious actors using public Wi-Fi networks, maintaining battery life, and even boosting productivity.  

Switch between macOS and Windows, keep your Mac secure by only connecting to trusted networks, and supercharge productivity with Parallels Desktop.  

Ready to start using Airplane Mode on your Mac? Get started with Parallels Desktop with a 14-day free trial.   

Interested in learning more about using Macs? Check out our other related articles:  

• How to force quit unresponsive apps on your Mac 

• How to check storage and free up disk space on your Mac 

• How to zoom in and out on Mac 

• How to find and remove duplicate files on Mac 

• How to zip and unzip files on a Mac 

The post How to use Airplane Mode on a Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Microsoft has made it official—support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. That deadline is closer than it seems.

Here’s what that means for your business.

• No more free monthly updates or bug fixes: Your OS will no longer receive critical patches to address vulnerabilities.  

• No more feature updates: You’ll miss out on tech advancements that streamline workflows and keep you competitive.  

• Security risks: Without ongoing support, systems running Windows 10 will face increased exposure to cyber threats. 

IT professionals and their organizations face a critical decision.  

Should they stick with an outdated system or embrace the future with Windows 11? 

Making the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 isn’t just about meeting deadlines or purchasing the latest upgrade. 

It’s about seizing an opportunity to enhance security, productivity, and compatibility in a rapidly evolving workplace. 

Using insights from Parallels Desktop usage data, I uncovered how businesses are adapting to the change, why Windows 11 matters, and the steps you need to take to prepare.  

Start your Parallels Desktop Pro free 14-day trial today and stay one step ahead of the game. 

The shift from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is happening in virtual machines 

Our data is clear—Windows 11 adoption is rising.  

Our usage data tells the story—Windows 11 adoption in Parallels Desktop VMs has climbed from 74% to 91% over the last two years, showing clear momentum.   

However, not all businesses are making the shift.  

Why?  

One word: hardware.  

Businesses are struggling to migrate due to the more advanced hardware requirements of Windows 11

Legacy PCs or older PCs generally don’t meet the requirements for Windows 11. 

Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 features like the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, enhanced security protocols, and high-performance capabilities necessitate the latest processors and chipsets.  

These are more common in newer PCs that many organizations have yet to adopt.  

This is where virtualization shines (at least if you have Macs available). 

With virtualization tools like Parallels Desktop, running Windows 11 on older or Intel-based Macs becomes seamless.  

If you are an IT admin or otherwise responsible for your organization’s fleet, you can swap out legacy PCs for Intel or silicon Macs equipped with Parallels Desktop.  

Parallels Desktop allows Mac users to run Windows 11 efficiently, without hardware limitations.  

Parallels Desktop gives businesses a quick, cost-effective path to modernization without needing to buy new PCs.  

If new devices are in the budget, businesses have the flexibility to consider purchasing Macs plus Parallels Desktop can get the best of both worlds. 

For IT leaders who need to manage multiple licenses or a fleet of Macs at their organization, Parallels Desktop Business Edition or Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition are the solutions you need. 

See what hardware you need to run Windows 11 vs Windows 10 on Intel Macs or Macs with Apple silicon with Parallels Desktop.  

Apple silicon Macs and Windows 11: A perfect pair 

The transition is even more striking among businesses using Apple silicon Macs. 

• 97% of Apple silicon Mac users running Parallels Desktop run Windows 11 VMs versus 54% running Windows 10 VMs. * 

• Meanwhile, Intel-based Mac users demonstrate slower adoption, with 55% of them using Windows 11 VMs. 

Why the difference? 

The performance and efficiency of Apple silicon, coupled with Windows 11’s advanced features, are creating a powerful synergy that forward-thinking businesses can’t afford to ignore. 

Why upgrading to Windows 11 matters  

Switching from Windows 10 to Windows 11 isn’t just about avoiding disruption. It’s a strategic move designed to help organizations thrive in an evolving tech landscape.  

Here’s what’s at stake when you make the leap.  

1. Enhanced security 

Cyberattacks and ransomware threats have doubled in recent years, and Windows 11’s zero-trust security model directly addresses these challenges.  

For example, when the Log4Shell outbreak hit, over 50% of affected installations were already end-of-support on Day 0. These systems, previously overlooked for upgrades, became critical overnight.   

By using TPM 2.0 and encryption features, the OS keeps your data safer than ever—a necessity for businesses of all sizes. 

Aleksandr Sursiakov, Senior Director of Product Management, shared his thoughts, “Software and hardware upgrades are often deprioritized to optimize expenses, but EoL and EoS deadlines pose serious cybersecurity risks. Once EoL passes, vulnerabilities may be exposed and exploited immediately without patches. Organizations should plan transitions 6 to12 months in advance, as upgrades and procurement take time and should be phased to prevent disruptions. If upgrades aren’t feasible, sandboxing mitigation strategies like virtualization, remote access, or browser isolation can help. Some vendors also offer costly extended support for those unable to meet deadlines.”   

2. Improved productivity 

Streamlined interfaces and advanced features available in Windows 11 empower teams to work smarter, not harder.  

Features like Snap Layouts, Widgets, and Microsoft Teams integrations support multitasking and collaboration to simplify the workflows that drive productivity. 

3. Future-proofed compatibility 

Software vendors are prioritizing Windows 11 since staying on older systems like Windows 10 could lead to compatibility issues.  

As the Windows 10 support deadline grows near, software updates, driver support, and even security patches will become less frequent.  

By upgrading to Windows 11, businesses ensure that they will continue to benefit from improved security and receive the latest updates, support, and compatibility with third-party applications.  

How to prepare for the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 

Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 on a Mac doesn’t have to be a struggle if you have a Parallels Desktop license.  

Follow these steps to ensure an easy migration for your Macs and teams. 

1. Back up your data  

Before making changes, back up your files. Use an external drive or trusted cloud storage solution to safeguard your data.  

2. Install and set up Parallels Desktop 

Want to run Windows 11? No problem if you have a Mac and a Parallels Desktop license. 

With Parallels Desktop installed, you can quickly set up Windows 11—whether you’re working on a Mac with Intel or Apple silicon.  

3. Install Window 11 

Once you have Parallels Desktop installed, you must install Windows 11 in a virtual machine on your Mac.  

The time to make the move to Windows 11 is now  

The shift from Windows 10 to Windows 11 marks a key inflection point for both individuals and businesses, and the Parallels Desktop data sends a clear message about the future of work and the software that powers it.  

With the support deadline for Windows 10 quickly approaching, now is the time to act and prioritize solutions that ensure your organization is ready for the change.  

The data is evident—those leading the charge toward Windows 11 adoption are already reaping the benefits of heightened security, improved collaboration, and long-term compatibility.  

Stepping into the future early secures your spot in an evolving workplace driven by innovation.  

Businesses that adopt Windows 11 early are positioning themselves for success in 2025 and beyond 

Looking for an affordable, quick way to run Windows 11 on virtual machines on MacBooks?  

With Parallels Desktop, you can leave expensive hardware upgrades behind while keeping pace with industry-leading trends.  

Start your Parallels Desktop Pro free 14-day trial today and stay one step ahead of the game. 

If you’re interested in an IT-managed solution, please reach out to our sales team for a conversation about Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition. 

*Note that Parallels Desktop users can run more than one Windows VM on the same MacBook, so the total percentage may exceed 100%. 

The post Goodbye Windows 10, Hello Windows 11: Windows End of Life  appeared first on Parallels Blog.

I’m excited to unveil Parallels Desktop 20.2.0, the third major release in the Parallels Desktop 20 series—all delivered in just four months!  

At Parallels, we’re committed to bringing you powerful, user-focused features designed to bring some value to your everyday work and play. 

In this update, we’re introducing innovations for every type of user, whether you run Windows apps on your Mac, manage large-scale IT deployments, or dive deep into development and testing. 

Let’s take a closer look at what’s new! 

New improvements for Pro users (developers, testers, and tech enthusiasts) 

A milestone: introducing the early technology preview of x86 emulation 

I’m proud to share a significant milestone — starting with Parallels Desktop 20.2.0 you can use x86 emulation on Apple silicon Macs.  

This functionality allows you to run some Intel-based (x86_64) virtual machines (VMs) on Apple silicon Macs via our proprietary emulation engine.  

Since we first introduced Parallels Desktop 16.5 with support for Apple silicon Macs, the ability to run x86_64 virtual machines has been a limitation.  

And today, after months of hard work, we’re releasing this early technology preview for tech enthusiasts who want to explore its potential. 

What does this functionality allow you to do? 

We listened to your feedback — it’s important to us!  

Many users have reached out to us and requested the ability to run, develop, and test 32-bit Windows apps in a native environment.  

Some of you also asked for the ability to run x86_64 Linux virtual machines as an alternative solution to running Linux virtual machines through Rosetta.   

That is why you now can: 

• Run existing x86_64 Windows 10, Windows 11*, Windows Server 2019/2022, and some Linux distributives with UEFI BIOS via Parallels Emulator. 

• Create new Windows 10 21H2 and Windows Server 2022 virtual machines. 

* Running x86_64 Windows 11 24H2 virtual machines through x86 emulation isn’t supported currently due to the absence of SSE (Streaming SIMD Extensions) 4.2 support. 

Are there any limitations? 

Since the functionality is in the early technology preview stage, it has some significant limitations: 

• Performance is slow—really slow. Windows boot time is about 2-7 minutes, depending on your hardware. Windows operating system responsiveness is also low. 

• Only 64-bit operating systems are supported. But you can run 32-bit apps. Since there are millions of apps in the world, we couldn’t test all of them. I invite you to give it a try and share your feedback with us. 

• There is no support for USB devices which means you won’t be able to connect external devices to your VM.  

• Parallels hypervisor can’t be used. All VMs will be booted via the Apple hypervisor. Nested virtualization is not supported either. 

You can find more details about the functionality and its limitations in this article. 

Please note that we’ve hidden the option to start a virtual machine in our UI to avoid false expectations for the majority of users who don’t actually need it.  

I know it’s not a complete solution yet, but I wanted to give you a first look and invite you to share your feedback with us on our Forum or through Support.  

It’s important for us to better understand your workflow and what we can do to enhance the feature for your needs. 

Automatically sync time and time zone for macOS VMs on Apple silicon 

We’re making it easier to manage macOS virtual machines on Apple silicon Macs with the introduction of automatic time and time zone sync. 

Why is this important?  

Previously, when creating a new macOS VM on Apple silicon, users had to manually set the time and time zone, adding extra steps to the setup process.  

Starting with Parallels Desktop 20.2, this sync happens automatically once you install Parallels Tools. 

Significant improvements for IT admins and managers 

Hybrid licensing and SSO support for Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition 

We made a promise—and we kept it.  

Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition with the new Management Portal that was recently released, and with it we’re making license management smarter and more flexible. 

Organizations that utilize a corporate identity provider (e.g., Microsoft Entra ID, Okta, etc.) can use it to automate license management of Parallels Desktop licenses and enable single sign-on (SSO) capabilities.  

IT admins no longer need to manually disable unused licenses.  

If an end-user is inactive and doesn’t log in for a month, the license seat is automatically revoked from this user and made available for another user.  

The same happens when a user leaves the organization. 

The activation process is super simple. Your end users just need to enter their corporate email and voila—the product is activated.  

You can also link groups in your identity provider to sublicenses in Parallels My Account to get more visibility over the license keys.   

But that’s not everything I wanted to share.  

With this update, IT admins and managers have greater flexibility in managing the license keys.  

They can allow one group of users to sign in through SSO while enabling other groups to activate Parallels Desktop using a license key.  

More details can be found in the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition Guide. 

Simplified deployment: Introducing support for Configuration profiles 

How is this support helpful for new deployments? 

As of now, you can easily deploy the Parallels Desktop application from the MDM App Catalogs and deliver information about the Parallels Desktop activation experience with the help of configuration profiles.  

Configuration profiles can be created right from the iMazing Profile Editor app. 

Simply choose how end users will activate—with a license key or via SSO.  

Once the profile is created, push it to the end users’ Macs and Parallels Desktop will apply this configuration the next time they start up.

Delivering Parallels Desktop settings can be done through the Parallels Desktop Management Portal (available in Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition).   

The option to deploy the Parallels Desktop application, virtual machines, licensing information, and the settings using the deployment package is still available. 

How can it be helpful for existing installations? 

In response to the request from IT administrators, the Parallels Team has implemented support for managing the activation experience on managed Macs.  

Once the configuration profile is deployed to the target Macs, if an end user tries to activate the Mac using a different key, Parallels Desktop will automatically reactivate with the key defined in the configuration profile.  

It will also prompt the user to sign in with SSO based on the selected activation method. As a result, IT admins can ensure the end users get the proper experience and don’t face any challenges with activating Parallels Desktop, even if the product is uninstalled and reinstalled later.  

I’m excited to share that Parallels Desktop is the first end-point virtualization solution that offers this kind of functionality. 

Improvements for Windows app users 

Writing Tools for Windows apps: Enhanced usability 

We’ve made it even easier to use Writing Tools powered by Apple Intelligence with your favorite Windows apps. Now you can access them directly from the context menu in: 

• Microsoft Outlook (classic) 

• Microsoft Word 

• Microsoft PowerPoint 

This integration makes polishing your text smoother than ever, whether you’re editing emails, documents, or presentations. 

The 20.2.0 update also includes a range of fixes to enhance the overall stability and reliability of Parallels Desktop.  

We’ve addressed key issues reported by users to ensure a smoother and more seamless experience. Learn more here. 

New to Parallels Desktop for Mac? Get your 14-day free trial of Parallels Desktop now.   

The post Parallels Desktop 20.2: another exciting update in the Parallels Desktop 20 series appeared first on Parallels Blog.

The M chip is perhaps Apple’s most important release in the 2020s (so far).  

Introduced in November 2020, the M1 chip was the first one designed exclusively for macOS.  

Its speed, efficiency, and power have provided a notable boost to the complete Mac experience. 

Before the M1 release, Apple used Arm technology in its iOS devices (iPhone and iPad). Arm chips were used in Macs from 2016 to 2020 and are still commonly used in Windows machines.  

Still, the M1 chip delivers faster performance and exceptional power efficiency, including a 2X longer battery life.  

Following the successful release of M1, Apple unveiled the M2 chip in 2022, the M3 chip in 2023, and the M4 chip this past May.  

It’s a safe bet that the M5 chip will be released in 2025. Of course, it’s expected to be faster than all its M series predecessors.  

Try Parallels Desktop for Mac and run all your favorite apps on the M chip Apple computers, including Windows-exclusive apps. 

What are the differences between each M chip version?

There are significant differences among M chip versions, each with generation-over-generation updates and improvements. Let’s take a closer look:  

M1 chip

Released in 2020, the first M1 chip integrates the CPU (central processing unit) with the GPU (graphics processing unit) on a single piece of silicon. Consequently, enabling it to perform faster and extend MacBook’s battery life.  

Johny Srouji, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Technologies, said at the M1 announcement, “There has never been a chip like M; our breakthrough SoC (system on a chip) for the Mac.  

It builds on more than a decade of designing industry-leading chips for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, and ushers in a whole new era for the Mac.”  

The M1 chip is available in MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac models.  

M1 Pro

The M1 Pro offers increased performance with more CPU and GPU cores, making it 70 percent faster than the M1.  

 A PC chip’s peak performance paled compared to M1 Pro’s 1.7x higher CPU performance while using less than 70 percent power.  

The M1 Pro chip’s integrated graphics performed 7x faster than the 8-core PC laptop chip with its 16-core CPU.  

The M1 Pro is available on MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, iMac, and iPad Pro.  

M1 Max

When it launched in the fall of 2021, the M1 Max was the largest chip Apple had ever built.  

With a 10-core CPU similar to the M1 Pro, it added an impressive 32-core GPU, making its graphics processing capabilities 4x faster than the original M1.  

It performed like the highest-end GPU for the largest PC laptops but required far less power.  

The M1 Max allows for faster performance while it generates less heat and uses quiet fans.  

The M1 Max is available on MacBook Pro and MacBook Studio models.  

M1 Ultra

In the M1 series, M1 Ultra is the M chip on steroids.  

It is the UltraFusion packaging of two M1 Max dies, thus creating a powerful system on a chip.  

As a result, it produces 2.5 terabytes of bandwidth—four times higher than its competing PC.  

Mac M1 Ultra is exclusive to Mac Studio, providing access to apps designed for iPhone and iPad plus universal apps.  

M2 chip

Launching the next generation of Apple’s silicon, the M2 is exclusively designed for Macs.  

Like its M1 predecessor, it maintained its focus on power and efficiency and delivered a CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine. 

The SoC design of M2 has 50 percent more bandwidth than M1, with up to 24GB of fast unified memory, enabling it to handle larger and more complex workloads. 

The M2 chip is available on MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, iPad Pro, and Mac Studio. 

M2 Pro

The M2 Pro is available on the Mac Mini and the MacBook Pro. 

M2 Max

M2 Max is the answer for users who require heavy media tasks.  

The M2 Max was the most powerful chip Apple put in a laptop until the M2 Ultra debuted. It has the power to function in GPU-in-depth tasks and machine-learning applications.   

The M2 Max is available on MacBook Pro and Mac Studio. 

M2 Ultra

Inspired by its precursor, the M1 Ultra, the M2 Ultra is created from two M2 Max chips with UltraFusion technology.  

It offers scaled-up workflows, transcodes, exports video, runs intricate particle simulations, and works within 3D environments.  

When the M2 Ultra chip was released in June 2023, it made the new Mac Studio and Mac Pro the most powerful Mac desktops ever released up to that point.   

The M2 Ultra is available on Mac Studio and the Mac Pro.  

M3 chip

The M3 series was released in the fall of 2023, introducing the first three-nanometer technology.  

Apple surprised the industry by releasing the three models all at once, rather than their usual practice of releasing them in waves.  

Laura Metz, director of Apple’s Mac product marketing team, stressed how important it was for the M3 series to democratize features and ensure they are accessible to all users while also building their systems for real-life workloads.   

The M3 chip series introduced the Apple 3nm (or 3-nanometer), allowing more transistors to be packed into smaller spaces while elevating speed and efficiency.  

The devices with M3 chips include the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and the iMac. 

M3 Pro

The M3 pro streamlines workflows for creatives, coders, and researchers. This efficiency was accomplished by making the GPU 40 percent faster than the M1 Pro.   

The MacBook Pro comes with the M3 Pro chip.  

M3 Max

The M3 Max is designed for users who require complex applications like 3D graphics and video editing due to its architectural improvements to the performance and efficiency cores. 

M2 Ultra

Despite the success of its predecessors, the M1 and M2 Ultra, and anticipation for the M3 Ultra, Apple scrapped releasing it. Instead, they skipped over this version and went straight into the M4 chip series. 

M4 chip

In May 2024, Apple released the iPad Pro powered by an M4 chip, making it the second-generation three-nanometer technology.  

The M4 series comes with advanced machine-learning features for future software releases.  

Building on the M series legacy, the M4 offers power-efficient performance while making the iPad Pro the most powerful device of its kind.  

Devices with M4 chips include iPad Pro, iMac, Mac Mini, and the MacBook Pro. 

M5 chip

The M5 chip is anticipated for release in 2025, leaping further into performance efficiency.  

At this time, Apple has not shared what M5 will bring; however, it is expected to continue to build off the previous series.  

There are speculations that new iterations like the Pro, Max, and Ultra will follow the M5.  

It is worth pointing out that all the M series chips are 100% carbon neutral, aligning with Apple’s carbon neutral plan to have net-zero climate impact across its business by 2030.   

Parallels Desktop works beautifully with M chip Macs

Parallels Desktop allows Mac users to run Windows, Linux, and more on all M chip Macs.  

As the only Microsoft-authorized solution running Windows on Macs with Intel and Apple silicon, the Parallels Desktop team continues to collaborate closely with Apple to bring our millions of users with the latest updates so that they can feel confident investing in their Mac.   

Elevate your Mac experience running Windows and Windows applications. Choose from over 200,000 apps to work, study, and play.  

Want to try it for yourself? Get your free trial of Parallels Desktop now.  

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