Most multiple proprietary Windows app needs I encounter require either a combination of Windows-specific browser plug-ins and the Windows OS or low-level resources but the Windows OS, meaning these applications can usually be capably accommodated using a VMware or a Parallels VM. However, it's more likely that, if the proper Mac model is selected and possesses the correct video performance capacity and corresponding CPU and memory upgrades, a VMware or Parallels VM will prove best. A single universal recommendation is more difficult, but not out of the question.Īssuming the Windows applications don't require intensive system resources, running Windows within a VMware or Parallels VM will again prove most convenient for the same reasons a VM is advantageous when running a single Windows-dependent program, as described above.īut, if the Windows programs require considerable graphics and processor power, or if all the computer's memory is required to provide proper performance, Boot Camp may be required to deliver the most reliable operation. An example is a Mac user who frequently manages workflow processes using a Windows-based industry-specific application and often enters customer-related information within a Windows-specific tool. Some Apple professionals must run multiple Windows applications simultaneously. Recommendation: VMware or Parallels VM Multiple proprietary Windows apps No OS X applications or functions are sacrificed. Tasks commonly completed using OS X continue to prove immediately available, while the single Windows application is just a few clicks away and behaves as if it's just another application needing to be opened within OS X. Unless the sole proprietary program possesses intensive processing requirements, such as is commonly true for video editing and three-dimensional drafting, running Windows within a VMware or Parallels VM typically proves most convenient. Despite cloud-computing and web-based trends, some applications continue only providing full functionality when run within a dedicated Windows environment.

Likely the most common Windows-on-a-Mac need, many Apple professionals also require Windows due to the need to run one critical proprietary, often industry-specific, Windows application. SEE: Gallery: 10 screen sharing programs for Windows and Mac that make collaboration and support easy Single proprietary Windows app Here are recommendations for common scenarios. The only trick is knowing which option-Boot Camp or a VM-works best for your intended Windows purposes.

With continued Mac performance gains, Boot Camp improvements, and two capable virtual machine (VM) technologies in VMware Fusion and Parallels Desktop for Mac, Apple professionals have multiple options to reliably power Windows installations on Macs. Running Windows on a Mac was once a process fraught with tribulation, though now it's a common operation that should be painless.

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