Parallels Promo Codes and Guides

Parallels Desktop 7 is the latest software release that allows users to run Microsoft software on Mac. With a more user-friendly interface, an improved graphics and surround sound support, PD7 can seamlessly run Windows and Mac OS X side by side even without rebooting. It has been optimized to work on Mac OS X Lion but it can still run other operating systems like Linux and Ubuntu while maintaining system stability.

This application works by creating a virtual machine where users can install and use Microsoft programs on Mac, almost like having a separate physical Windows PC. There are different modes to choose from. Users can either run their Microsoft applications in a window that displays the Windows desktop or run the Microsoft programs on Mac as if they are integrated into OS X.

Set up for Parallels Desktop can either be initiated from an upgrade or launched from the new version itself. Those who are upgrading from Parallels Desktop 6 can get an activation license number from the Parallels online store or an authorized retailer. Once Parallels Desktop 7 is installed, it automatically removes the previous version. After activating the software, users should also register it to get more benefits like automatic updates and additional technical support. For those who do not have their own copies of Windows yet, they can get it straight from their Parallels Desktop 7. It is recommended to use the 64-bit version, but a 32-bit version can also run Microsoft Programs on Mac. Windows 7 can be launched fairly quickly with Parallels 7.

In order to run Microsoft applications on Macintosh platform, the minimum system requirement for Parallel Desktop 7 is Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher, at least 2 GB of RAM, and 4 GB for Windows 7 users. With Parallels Desktop 7, users can run Microsoft programs like Quicken, Outlook and Internet Explorer simultaneously with other Mac applications without causing any system slowdown. Users can also drag and drop files easily from Mac to Windows, and open files from one operating system to another as long as it is compatible. PD7 loads about 60 percent faster than the previous version. As a companion to help run Microsoft programs on Apple Macintosh, there is also the Parallels Mobile app, which gives remote access for both the Windows and Mac OS X running on the computer.

With this update, Mac’s iSight and FaceTime camera can now be shared between Microsoft Windows and OS X. Another added feature is the new Launchpad, where Windows programs can be displayed in Mac OS X Lion, and can even run on full-screen mode. While Parallels Desktop 7 can run Microsoft programs on Mac a lot better than its predecessor, it still has some setbacks. Some graphics-intensive Windows-based games cannot run as smoothly, so it is still better to run them on a dedicated Windows PC instead. Customers can avail of the free trial version, so they could know if this fits well with their needs. Users have always been able run Microsoft programs on Apple Macintosh, but with Parallel Desktop 7, the experience has become faster, easier and more convenient.