Parallels Desktop Switch to Mac Edition

Parallels Desktop is a program that allows users of Apple Mac computers to run Windows on their computers, and they do not even have to restart their computers to switch between Windows and the Mac operating system.

The Switch To Mac edition combines a full copy of the latest Parallels Desktop 5 program (actually it comes with version 4 and a free upgrade voucher) with a transfer cable to copy your files to the Mac, and a set of tutorials.

The tutorials are actually the best part of the package. Although Mac computers are very easy to use, those switching from PCs may find things confusing at first.

The Parallels tutorials are presented with both a ‘talking head’ guiding the user as well as a Mac desktop showing exactly where to click. Once the tutorial has ended the user can try it themselves without fear of breaking anything.

The transfer process was quite painless, Parallels itself worked well and the tutorials are excellent for new users.

It’s worth noting, though, that you will need to own a copy of the operating system to install it on the Mac – Parallels does not come with its own copy. The program includes the ability to copy your full installation of Windows to the Mac, but for most people, if your computer came with Windows pre-loaded, this will be a breach of the licensing terms.

Still, we were impressed with how simple it was to have our old computer up and running inside our new Mac, and the tutorials here are worth a large proportion of the price on their own.