Parallels Desktop 5: A Speedy And Useful Virtualization Software For Mac Users


parallel-4-macThe MAC OS installed with Apple Macintosh computers is a robust and Popular OS and it has enjoyed uninterrupted popularity among the Mac users since its inception. However, those who want to get a feel of Windows on their Macs often opt for virtualization software. It is typical for those users who migrate to Macintosh from Windows. A number of virtualization software is available to cater to their needs. Recently, Parallels launched its revamped virtualization software named Parallels Desktop 5 for Mac. This is a powerful and feature rich virtualization software that allows the Mac users to run Linux, Windows and other OSes on Intel CPU based Macintosh machines.

The good thing about the software is that it is compatible with both Leopard and its successor Snow Leopard. The price of the version 5 has been set at $80 whereas an upgrade would cost a person $50. The company claims that the new version has been designed from ground up and its 70 new features will make running Windows on Mac much faster and effortless.

Those who love the sleek and glossy interface of Windows 7 and Vista will like this software as well. It provides native support for the Aero visual theme used in both the operating systems. Another notable improvement is the USB data transfer speed under Windows. An optional mode named MacLook is offered in the application that gives Windows a similar appearance to Mac OS X. Apart from that, version 5 of Parallels Desktop provides support for swipe and pinch gestures in a number of applications. Multi monitor view has also been improved significantly.

Another important inclusion in the new version is seamless OpenGL 2.1 acceleration, both for Linux and Windows. This translates into better multimedia and gaming performance. Its support for Smart cards under Windows is a boon for the business users who need to use the security standard. Parallels has also bundled a number of useful Windows software with the Desktop 5 virtualization software. The users will like the 1 year subscription to a customized version of Kaspersky Internet security. For enhanced data recovery and backup, a copy of Acronis True Image and Acronis Disk Director is also included with the software.

As of now, the software is available in 4 more languages apart from English. However, the company said that versions in Asian languages will be launched in near future. Those who want to use this software can check at the Apple Store, Amazon.com or the Parallel’s website. The users of the earlier version can avail a free upgrade but the date of purchase must be October 1 onwards.

There is a solution from Apple that also allows the Mac users to run Windows on their machines. It is known as Boot camp. But it needs the user to restart the Macintosh and boot into Windows. But the Parallels CEO said that the latest version of the software zooms past boot camp in terms of speed and performance. Under $100 the software is a compelling buy for the enthusiast Mac users.

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  • Simon
    I would not touch this company as their upgrade policy really stinks. Having paid for v4 only 6 weeks ago, they now want to charge me for an upgrade. Disgusting timescales. There are alternatives so you don't have to do business with a company that treats their customers so badly
  • Mike
    That's harsh. If you'd bought it 6 days ago I might have some sympathy for you. But a month and a half is a pretty long time. The harsh reality is that you've just been unlucky with timing. It happens to us all with software every now and again. I'm not sure how that can be their fault. I am a Parallels 4.0 user and am very happy with it and am very happy to pay for an upgrade.
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