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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Two computers in one

Computers are essential these days and come in a variety of brands and styles. But sometimes the software you own is not compatible with other operating systems. Programs meant for Windows will not run on Mac OS, and vice versa. Luckily, Parallels Desktop solves this predicament seamlessly.

What is Parallels Desktop?

Instead of owning two computers to run your applications, Parallels Desktop allows you to run both Mac OS and Windows on the same machine, at the same time. This lets you get the best of both worlds, while minimizing the amount of hardware you have to carry around.

How does it work?

Parallels Desktop is a Mac application.  It installs on your Mac, and then you install Windows within Parallels. The Windows operating system runs within your Mac just like any other application. Other convenient features include the capability to share files between operating systems and customization options that let you control the level of incorporation between operating systems.

Your options.

There are two programs that hold the market on this type of application: Parallels Desktop and its competitor, VMWare Fusion. The price ranges from around $40 to $120 depending on which program you purchase, the features that come with it and where you buy it. If you want help choosing which program is right for you, Wikipedia has an extremely comprehensive comparison chart, listing the features of each.

NICOLE NOGA can be reached at science@theaggie.org.

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