Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac: Incredible Windows Support

a review by Tom Piper

Do you have a Macintosh computer, but need to run a Windows application?  Are you a “switcher” from a Windows platform, and still need to run some Windows programs for compatibility?  Do you require Windows XP or Windows 7 in order to access network or Internet resources? I have a great solution for you!

I have a small island of Macs at work, in a sea of PCs. It is important that I be able to simultaneously access both environments, and move information effortlessly between them. I started with Parallels Desktop 3 for the Mac several years ago, and have recently updated to Parallels 6, which now has over 80 new and enhanced features beyond its previous edition. This is a reliable and productive tool for my daily use.

As quoted from their website, “Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac is the #1 choice of customers worldwide to seamlessly run Windows applications on a Mac — without rebooting.” Graphics intensive programs are a breeze with this new and enhanced DirectX functionality. You can even remotely access your Windows programs from your iPad or iPhone with the Parallels Mobile app. If you love the look and feel of Mac OS, just turn off the Windows environment while still using its applications (like I use “Crystal” mode on my Mac). If you’re new to Mac, then keep the familiar Windows background and Start menu on your Mac (in a window or on the whole screen). Either way, you can run Windows and Mac applications side-by-side with no compromises in performance. I do it every day, and my Windows XP runs faster on my Mac than on most of the PCs around me.

In this latest “Switch to Mac” edition that I installed, Parallels comes with a high-speed USB transfer cable which works with the Parallels Transporter software to automatically move your programs, documents, and even browser favorites to your Mac. It even comes with video tutorials designed for Windows users, as well as Windows and Mac security software that is already included. And, if after using it for 90 days you don’t like it, it comes a money-back guarantee. This is a program that is bound to please.

To learn more, go to www.parallels.com . . . the usual price has been $79.99, but it has recently been reduced to only $59.99. Not only that, you can try it for 14 days for free, just to make sure you like it before you buy it. By the way, you do have to supply your own Windows software to put in Parallels Desktop. I highly recommend this software.