It’s true that Mac and PC are two separate groups with fairly well-established front lines, yet that doesn’t mean you can’t get the combination of the two. This article covers how to install Windows 11 on a Mac (these instructions must also help to Windows 10). So, you can use all of your preferred Window’s applications without compromising the speed and appearance of your Mac.

Since, Apple updated their Macs to its own proprietary M1 chips, Boot Camp was no longer able to function as it had on prior Intel chips, making it impossible to download Windows onto older Macs. However, if you’re ready to make a small investment in a VM (virtualization) arrangement, there is still a practical workaround.

Lets go!

Installing Windows 11 using Parallels Desktop 17

Parallels is a virtualization software that has been enhanced considering Windows 11 and MacOS. Also, the most recent Mac models with M1/M2 CPUs. Here, you can build up a virtual machine (VM) that is managed remotely from your local hardware. This allows to get around a number of restrictions, in this example, issues with Apple chip compatibility. Even though, we’ll be demonstrating the methods using Windows 11. They should still apply to Windows 10 if you have the necessary files.

Step 1: The issue is you have to pay for it. What you need is the ordinary edition, which costs $79.99 for a one-time payment with minimal support. If you just want to use it for a little period of time, also there is a subscription model available. A student version is also available at a reduced price. Here, you can first try a trial version, so that you can check that if it really fits you.

Step 2: Now, get the Windows 11 ISO file. This was not accessible during the initial Windows 11 launch window. Microsoft introduced this in late 2021,to simplifying the process. On this page, Microsoft has a useful manual. Now, Go to the Windows 11 disk image section, then choose lone choice from the Select download menu, then click Download to get started.

Step 3: Open Parallels and continue to any remaining setup instructions to ensure a complete installation. When its completed, Paralells will launch the Parallels Desktop Control center.

Step 4: Click on the Plus button, which is located in the upper-right corner.

Step 5: Click Install Windows or another OS from a DVD or image. Then, click Continue.

Step 6: The Installation Assistant will now launch and lead you through configuring your Windows 11 virtual machine. If your Windows 11 ISO downloaded to the internal memory. This is a simple procedure. Select Find automatically, once it’s asked to look in your Windows 11 ISO folder.

You can check up your license key on your Microsoft account if you have a licensed copy of Windows 11, and you will also have the option to enter it. This will expedite installation and guarantee that all functionalities are available.

Step 7: Now, input some basic information for the window which will be prompted. These will be regarding your objectives when using Windows. This is to support the assistant in selecting settings. Then, give this particular VM a memorable name. Here, you may typically change those settings later (also, it can mess up your VM if you tweak settings the wrong way). You can always change this settings. But, it’s not required. Select Create and complete the VM. Then, select Continue once you’ve finished everything.

Give it a pause. A process indicator will let you know how long the installation will take. Don’t expect to use your Mac for a while, and make sure it’s online and powered up, as creating a full Windows 11 VM could take some time. Finally, once the setup is complete, Windows 11 is ready to use.

How about Macs with M1 chips but older versions?

However best part is that this method works for Macs with or without the M1 chip, just as it does with Windows 10 or 11. Therefore, using Parallels is still the smoothest choice, in our opinion.

Also, you have the choice to install Windows 10 straight using the built-in Boot Camp without the M1 chip, but keep in mind that this won’t work with Windows 11 and may have certain limitations. Running Boot Camp is similar to installing Parallels in that you will need to decide how to partition your hard drive for Windows and will also need a duplicate of the Windows 10 ISO on standby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it free to install Windows on a Mac?

Mac users can install Windows for free with Apple’s built-in Boot Camp Assistant. Here, you can Install this using simply by the first-party helper, but you must restart your Mac each time you wish to use the Windows feature. Another choice is Parallels Desktop, a third-party program that enables you to move between Windows and macOS without having to restart your computer.

Will Boot Camp make my Mac slower?

To boot Windows normally, you must utilize an application called Boot Camp. Boot Camp gives Windows complete access to the computer’s resources, including its processing power. The PC won’t run any slower thanks to Boot Camp. In essence, it only enables you to run Windows on a Mac.

Does Office offer a free Mac version?

Both PCs and Macs support one-time purchases. However, as there are no upgrade options, you will have to pay full price if you want to move up to the following major update. You can use the free Office for the web version of the application on an internet browser.

Recommendations

User guide For Mac: Tips and tricks for your Mac

Which is Apple’s best desktop? Mac Studio vs. iMac vs. Mac Mini