Windows It is such an important operating system, that many application developers They leave out other computers such as Mac, leaving their users unable to use their platforms.
However, it does not mean that all is lost, as there are some Methods to run Windows programs on MAC, which will allow you to use all these software, taking advantage of the resources provided by Apple computers.
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How to open Windows applications on a MAC PC
While it is true that the form of running windows software on a mac It may vary, we present the options you have at hand and explain their advantages and disadvantages, so that you are the one who chooses the one that best suits you.
Please note that, depending on the selected mode, you will be able to use all the system resources, or divide them by two OS. There is also an easier method, but with the disadvantage that it does not work with all programs.
Anyway, We explain it better below.
1. Virtual Machine: Run Windows programs without uninstalling macOS
The word virtual machine a type of program that allows you to install several operating systems, but within the same software. It is like a kind of emulator, which is able to make the operating system you are installing think that you are actually doing it on a computer with the minimum required conditions.
Therefore, the Virtual machines for MAC they have the great advantage that You can run specialized software on Windows, directly from a window on your PC's desktop. That is, you won't have to uninstall your PC's operating system (macOS in this case).
However, the disadvantage of a virtual machine is which consumes practically the same resources, which results in the total maximum of the processor and RAM being divided between the MAC and Windows of the VM.
Therefore, Many programs may run slowly or with little autonomy. Although of course, this depends entirely on the MAC you have, so if you have a powerful computer and the software you are running is not so heavy, you may not have problems.
These are the best virtual machines for MAC.
Parallels
We add to Parallels first on the list because it is practically The best MAC virtual machine to run Windows programs with high precision. This app doesn't even require you to configure or set it up, as it comes ready to work by default.
In essence, Parallels can use the version of Windows installed on your PC (if you have a second operating system), or take advantage of the one included in the same package. Of course, you will need to download directly from the virtual machine, the programs you want to use.
But what we like most about your system is that it is can run in the background, while the softwares will appear on your MAC desktop, as if they were apps native, making it so you don't even notice you're using a virtual machine.
In fact, you can even drag icons or shortcuts to the desktop and enjoy them from there. It will also allow you to run programs like Microsoft Office and with a effectiveness that has improved to 70%.
However, The program is not free and you will have to pay for a subscription package, as well as the respective fees each time there is an update. It does have a 15-day trial version with certain limitations.
Download Parallels on your Website |
VirtualBox
Another great virtual machine to run Windows on Mac es VirtualBox, a slightly more complex and technical alternative than Parallels, since this time you will have to make manual configurations, which will take some time and raise the usability curve.
Moreover, VirtualBox It is quite far from the tools that the previous platform offers, such as running it in the background or dragging Windows program icons onto the desktop of a MAC.
The fluidity is also a bit limited, as this virtual machine requires more resources. In fact, you will have to pay for the Windows license to be able to install the operating system, which makes it essential that you buy it legally.
However, it doesn't mean it's bad. This program was Developed by Oracle and on the latest technology MAC computers you can install and run many applications designed for Windows, with all the features and functions enabled.
Not forgetting that you won't have to pay to use VirtualBox, because the software is totally free, with all the tools available to configure and adjust the system to your liking.
Download VirtualBox on your Website |
2. Install Windows directly on a MAC
If you are not convinced by virtual machines or you are not very comfortable with technical configurations, you can consider other solutions such as install Windows operating system on a MAC computer.
In short, you will be able to run Windows on the hardware of a MAC, taking advantage of its range of resources, the RAM memory in its entirety and the processors, since Here consumption will not be divided into two operating systems.
Boot Camp
Talking about Boot CampThis is a utility that comes pre-installed on Apple computers, so you won't have to download it or anything similar. You will, however, have to purchase the Windows license and the operating system.
You will also have to follow the installation steps for this system, which can raise the complexity curve, depending on your knowledge. Another drawback is that Both operating systems work with completely different file drives, making it impossible to access the documents and files you have saved on the Mac system from Windows.
Considerations
One of the advantages of using this method is that You don't have to uninstall MacOS, because programs like Boot Camp will let you have both operating systems installed, but you will only be able to run one at a time.
That is, in order to open Windows applications, you will have to log in to that operating system and close the MAC one, which would essentially be like have two different computers, which operate completely separately.
This does not allow app icons to be brought to the MacOS desktop as a virtual machine like Parallels would do. As a result, every time you want to use Windows, you will have to log out of MacOS or vice versa.
3. Compatibility layer: emulator or translator?
The word compatibility layer a type of process in which a program performs the task of translating the codes of a particular software to adapt its operation to the code of another operating system.
This makes it possible for some Windows programs work on MAC without having to use a virtual machine or install the operating system, but this has its own disadvantages, such as not working with all applications.
Wine
If you have already used Linux Previously, you probably know a little about Wine. We are talking about a program that allows run Windows programs on computers like Mac or Linux, but it is not a virtual console.
What is the difference? In Wine you won't have to install the operating system, as you won't even have a Windows desktop or any of its settings or OS features. Rather, it will create a shortcut to the program on the MAC desktop.
The real way Wine works is that “translate” the codes and software to adapt it to MacOS, which would be partly far from an emulator, since it does not support all the features of Windows.
The drawbacks
Wine is a very good solution because it will allow you run windows games on mac, programs, applications or a large number of utilities, designed specifically for that operating system.
However, the main disadvantage is that does not work with all software. In fact, depending on the complexity of the application, you will notice that the program runs smoothly, slowly, or you will not be able to open it at all.
For this reason, it is recommended to use Wine when you need to use simple applications, such as an office suite or a not-so-complex photo editor. It is all a matter of trying and seeing how it works on your PC. Also, it is completely free.
WinneBottler
WinneBottler It is based on Wine, but with some useful changes to get the most out of your system. This is nothing more than a compatibility layer, which will simplify the process of installing Windows software on a Mac.
For this purpose a application management system, which is able to manage all the programs so that you only have to install the ones you need. And if it doesn't work for you or you don't want to have it anymore, you can uninstall them directly from the app.
This allows you to have quick and direct access from the desktop, but also perfectly translates the program codes, to avoid the long process of having a virtual machine.
Although of course, keep in mind that the required resources for the software that runs WinneBottler or traditional Wine are important, so you will notice that they do not run smoothly if you have a PC limited in that aspect.
Download WinneBottler from their Website |
Conclusions
Run your favorite software, use a virtual machine, an app translator or the operating system and learn how to install windows programs on mac.
We have prepared a total of three different solutions, so you can stick to the one you like best. They all have their advantages and disadvantages, but the choice depends on your level of technical knowledge and the immediacy you require for the use of the apps, which has a determining factor in your decision.
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My name is Javier Chirinos and I am passionate about technology. Ever since I can remember, I have been interested in computers and video games, and that passion has turned into a job.
I have been publishing about technology and gadgets on the Internet for over 15 years, especially in mundobytes.com
I am also an expert in online marketing and communication and have knowledge in WordPress development.