Parallels Software Company and Their Products
Introduction to Parallels Software Company
Parallels is a global leader in cross-platform solutions, known for creating innovative software that allows users to run applications and operating systems across different devices and environments seamlessly. Founded in 1999, Parallels is a part of Corel Corporation, which also owns other notable software brands like WinZip, CorelDRAW, and MindManager. Parallels initially made a name for itself in the virtualization and remote desktop market, with its flagship product, Parallels Desktop for Mac, leading the way.
The company’s mission is to bridge the gap between different platforms, ensuring that users can work more efficiently by enabling Windows, Linux, and macOS applications to run side by side on the same machine. Over the years, Parallels has expanded its portfolio to include several other solutions that cater to both individual and business users, with products designed to enhance productivity, streamline IT operations, and provide seamless access to multiple environments.
Here is a list of their notable products, with the short descriptions:
- Parallels Desktop: This is one of the company’s flagship products, designed primarily for Mac users. It allows them to run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems on their Mac computers without rebooting. Parallels Desktop provides a seamless experience, integrating the guest operating system with the host system.
- Parallels Access: This product provides remote access to applications and files from any device. It’s particularly useful for accessing software that’s only available on a specific computer or operating system.
- Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS): This is a comprehensive virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and application delivery solution. It enables businesses to deliver virtual desktops and applications to users on various devices, providing secure remote access and enhancing productivity.
- Parallels Toolbox: A collection of handy tools designed to simplify common tasks. It includes features like screenshot capture, file compression, video conversion, and more, all accessible through a single interface.
- Parallels Mac Management for Microsoft SCCM: This product extends SCCM capabilities to manage Mac devices seamlessly, offering centralized control for software deployment, inventory, patching, and security, alongside existing Windows infrastructure.
- Parallels Business Automation: Designed for service providers, this product helps manage and automate the delivery of cloud services, including billing, provisioning, and customer management.
Now, we will delve deeply into Parallels Desktop, the company’s most popular product, while also providing an overview of other Parallels solutions.
Parallels Desktop: The Flagship Product
What is Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop for Mac is the most well-known and widely used product by Parallels. This powerful software allows users to run Microsoft Windows, Linux, and other operating systems on a Mac computer without rebooting. By leveraging the concept of virtualization, Parallels Desktop creates a virtual machine (VM) that enables multiple operating systems to run on the same hardware.
With Parallels Desktop, Mac users can access Windows-only software, play PC games, or even develop and test in multiple operating systems simultaneously. This makes it an essential tool for developers, business users, and even casual users who prefer the Mac experience but occasionally need to use Windows software.
Features of Parallels Desktop
1. Seamless Integration with macOS
One of the primary reasons for the popularity of Parallels Desktop is its seamless integration with macOS. Parallels Desktop enables users to run Windows applications directly from their Mac’s desktop, just as if they were Mac apps. This “Coherence Mode” allows Windows applications to blend in with the Mac environment without requiring a separate desktop interface for Windows.
For example, users can drag and drop files between Windows and macOS, copy and paste across operating systems, and even use Mac keyboard shortcuts in Windows applications. This degree of integration makes switching between macOS and Windows fluid and intuitive.
2. Performance Optimization
Over the years, Parallels Desktop has been optimized for both performance and user experience. The software provides fast boot times, smooth graphics, and responsive application performance. It has native support for Apple’s M1 and M2 silicon chips, ensuring that the software works efficiently on newer Macs without compromising speed or system resources.
Whether users are running intensive applications like Adobe Photoshop, Visual Studio, or AutoCAD, Parallels Desktop is designed to deliver high performance with minimal lag or slowdown. The software also allows for customizable resource allocation, enabling users to adjust how much CPU power, memory, and disk space is assigned to the virtual machine.
3. Cross-Platform Compatibility
Parallels Desktop not only supports running Windows on a Mac but also Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora, among others. The platform supports the installation of older Windows versions as well, allowing for legacy application testing and development. For developers and IT professionals, Parallels Desktop is invaluable because it enables testing across multiple environments without requiring multiple physical machines.
4. Parallels Toolbox
Parallels Desktop includes Parallels Toolbox, a set of one-click tools designed to improve productivity. These tools provide functionalities like screen recording, downloading videos, archiving files, and freeing up disk space. Parallels Toolbox offers a variety of utilities that enhance the overall Mac experience, adding additional value to the software.
5. Gaming Capabilities
Parallels Desktop is optimized for gaming as well, with improved support for DirectX and OpenGL. This means that users can run Windows-exclusive games, even on M1 and M2 Macs, without significant loss in performance. While not primarily marketed as a gaming tool, Parallels Desktop has become increasingly appealing to gamers who prefer Mac hardware but still want access to PC gaming titles.
Use Cases for Parallels Desktop
1. Developers and IT Professionals
For developers and IT professionals, Parallels Desktop is a must-have tool for running multiple operating systems simultaneously, testing applications in different environments, and developing cross-platform solutions. The ability to create isolated virtual environments allows for secure testing and debugging without the risk of compromising the primary operating system.
2. Business Users
Many businesses rely on Windows-based software like Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, or proprietary tools that are not available on macOS. Parallels Desktop enables businesses to maintain a Mac infrastructure while still accessing these essential Windows applications. Business users also appreciate the ease with which they can switch between operating systems without needing to reboot, enhancing productivity and flexibility.
3. Casual Users
Even for non-professionals, Parallels Desktop offers numerous advantages. Casual users can run Windows applications, play PC games, or explore Linux distributions without the need for a separate computer. Parallels Desktop is also highly accessible for less technical users, with easy setup processes and user-friendly features.
Parallels Desktop Editions
Parallels Desktop comes in several editions to cater to different needs:
- Parallels Desktop Standard Edition: This version is designed for home users and individuals who need basic virtualization capabilities. It includes standard features like running Windows applications and accessing Parallels Toolbox.
- Parallels Desktop Pro Edition: Targeted at developers and power users, the Pro Edition provides more advanced features, such as increased VM performance, enhanced testing and development tools, and customizable resource allocation.
- Parallels Desktop Business Edition: Geared towards enterprise users, this edition includes centralized management tools, volume licensing, and additional security features to ensure compliance with corporate policies.
Other Products by Parallels
While Parallels Desktop is the company’s flagship product, Parallels offers several other solutions aimed at simplifying cross-platform work and enhancing productivity.
1. Parallels Access
Parallels Access is a remote desktop solution that allows users to access their Mac or PC from a mobile device. With Parallels Access, users can control their desktop, run applications, and manage files from their iPhone, iPad, or Android device. The software’s “Applification™” technology makes desktop applications feel like native mobile apps, offering a smooth and responsive user experience.
This product is highly beneficial for professionals who are frequently on the move and need quick access to their work computers from anywhere. Parallels Access emphasizes speed, reliability, and ease of use, making it one of the most user-friendly remote desktop solutions on the market.
2. Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS)
Parallels RAS is a comprehensive virtual application and desktop delivery solution designed for businesses. It provides secure access to virtual desktops and applications from any device, helping organizations reduce IT costs and streamline their infrastructure. Parallels RAS supports a variety of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing businesses to enable a mobile workforce with access to critical applications.
Parallels RAS is especially popular among organizations looking to implement bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies, as it provides robust security features and ensures compliance with industry standards. It integrates easily with existing infrastructure, including Microsoft Azure and AWS, making it highly scalable for enterprises of all sizes.
3. Parallels Toolbox (Standalone)
While included with Parallels Desktop, Parallels Toolbox is also available as a standalone product. This suite of simple tools enhances productivity by offering a wide range of functionalities in one package. Some of the tools available include the ability to capture screenshots, record video, archive files, free up RAM, and even mute a computer’s microphone with a single click.
Parallels Toolbox is aimed at users who want quick access to essential utilities without the need for additional software or complex processes. It’s a lightweight and versatile tool that complements both macOS and Windows environments.
4. Parallels Mac Management for Microsoft SCCM
Parallels Mac Management for Microsoft SCCM allows IT administrators to manage both Mac and Windows computers using Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM). This product enables businesses to integrate Macs into their existing Windows-based infrastructure without needing to invest in separate management solutions.
With Parallels Mac Management, IT teams can deploy software, manage settings, and apply security updates to Mac devices in the same way they do for Windows machines. It simplifies the process of managing a mixed environment, reducing overhead and ensuring consistent security and compliance across all devices.
5. Parallels Business Automation (PBA)
Parallels Business Automation (PBA) is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline and automate business processes for cloud service providers and hosting companies. It integrates billing, customer management, and provisioning into one unified platform, enabling companies to efficiently manage services and subscriptions. PBA helps businesses automate key tasks such as invoicing, account management, and service delivery, leading to improved operational efficiency and scalability. With customizable modules, Parallels Business Automation allows businesses to adapt the platform to their specific needs, offering a seamless way to enhance customer experience and optimize resources in the competitive cloud market.
Conclusion
Parallels has positioned itself as a leader in the virtualization and cross-platform software space, with a wide range of products that cater to individuals, businesses, and IT professionals alike. While Parallels Desktop remains its flagship offering, the company’s broader portfolio addresses the growing need for flexible, cross-platform solutions in a world where users are no longer confined to a single operating system.
By enabling seamless integration between different environments, Parallels has made it easier than ever for users to work, play, and innovate across platforms. As the world continues to embrace remote work and cross-device collaboration, Parallels’ solutions are likely to remain at the forefront of the industry for years to come.
