Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac

Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac

Parallels Desktop 20 lets a compatible Mac run a supported guest operating system in a virtual machine. It can be useful when a Mac user needs a Windows application without maintaining a second physical computer. The Mac processor, macOS release and guest-system architecture all affect compatibility.

What this edition is for

Choose this application by the task and the named edition, rather than assuming every product from the same brand is interchangeable. Check a representative file or project and the supported platform before replacing an existing installation.

Useful capabilities

• Keep a supported guest environment available alongside the Mac desktop.
• Plan a Windows-only application workflow around the Mac hardware you actually own.
• Allocate memory and disk space for both the host computer and the guest system.

Who should consider it

A useful fit for Mac users with a confirmed compatible application and guest operating system.

Do not assume an included Windows licence or a guarantee that every Windows driver and game works on Apple silicon.

A practical workflow

Start with the task you need to finish and a representative project or file. Keep an original copy while testing a different application or release, and review the saved output before relying on it. Select the exact edition and platform used in the workflow rather than assuming every product under the same brand behaves identically. Additional services, plug-ins and future upgrades are separate offer details unless they are expressly included.

System requirements and compatibility

Check the publisher’s documentation for the named release before installing. The supported operating system, processor, memory, graphics, storage and any host application need to fit the actual computer. Minimum requirements do not guarantee comfortable performance for every project.

Publisher references: official product or release documentation · additional publisher guidance.

Installation and activation

1. Confirm the application release and download its matching official installer.
2. Use the vendor’s application, account or licence-manager activation route for the entitlement supplied.
3. Verify the edition and access status inside the correct application before moving an important project into it.

Licence details to check before purchase

The software feature set and the licence entitlement are separate. Confirm the permitted users, devices or cores, activation region, duration and start date, account ownership, and any transfer or upgrade rights for this particular offer. Online services, add-ons and major upgrades should only be expected when the supplied entitlement includes them.

Compare related options

• Windows 11 Pro
• Office 2024 Home & Business Mac
• Virtualization range

Frequently asked questions

Does Parallels include an activated copy of Windows?

No. Parallels and Windows have separate licensing. Apple silicon also requires a compatible Arm guest operating system, which affects application and peripheral support.

How do I check whether this offer matches my computer?

Match the application name, edition and release first, then review the publisher’s platform and hardware requirements. For bundles, check every component. If the licence type or account eligibility is unclear, clarify it before ordering.

Does the licence include every future upgrade or online service?

Only if the supplied entitlement explicitly covers it. Continuing use of a desktop release, access to an online service and an upgrade to a newer generation are different rights.