How to Run Windows on Mac: 4 Methods That Actually Work

Buying a Mac does not mean you have to give up Windows. You might need a Windows-only work application, open EXE files on Mac, a university tool, or software without a suitable macOS version. Fortunately, you can do that without buying another computer.

So, how can I install Windows on Mac? Depending on your Mac’s processor and your needs, you can choose from the different available methods. In this guide, I will explain how to run Windows on MacBooks in detail.

Can You Run Windows on a Mac?

Yes, you can run Windows OS on MacBook Air, Pro, iMac, or Mac mini, but the available methods depend on its processor. Macs generally fall into two categories:

• Apple Silicon Macs: Models with M-series chips, including M1, M2, M3, M4, and newer generations.
• Intel Macs: Older models with Intel processors.

Apple Silicon Macs cannot use Boot Camp. Instead, you can run compatible Windows software through virtualization or connect to a remote Windows computer.

Compatible Intel Macs support virtualization, and certain models also support Boot Camp, which installs Windows on a separate partition. However, Apple’s documented Boot Camp installation uses Windows 10, whose standard support ended on October 14, 2025. This makes Boot Camp less suitable for a new setup unless you understand the support limitations.

So, how do you run Windows on a Mac? For most users, virtualization is the most practical way to operate Windows on Macs locally. It allows you to use Windows applications alongside macOS without restarting your Mac.

How to Run Windows on Mac?

There are four practical ways to learn how to get Windows on Mac. Choose one based on your processor, budget, and whether you need Windows installed locally.

Method 1: Run Windows Using Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop creates a virtual machine that runs Windows inside macOS. You can switch between operating systems, open Windows applications, and share files without restarting your Mac.

It is a practical option for office software, everyday productivity, and many business applications. Here’s how to put Windows on a Mac:

• Download the compatible version of Parallels Desktop from its official website
• Install and open the application.

  

• Select the option to install Windows.

  

• Follow the installation assistant to download and configure Windows.

  

• Complete Windows setup and activate with an appropriate license.

  

• Install your applications and test the software.

  

On Apple Silicon Macs, you need Windows 11 on Arm, not the standard x86 version. Parallels can guide you through setting up a compatible virtual machine. Microsoft recognizes a supported version of Parallels as an authorized solution for running Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise on supported Silicon Macs.

Parallels Desktop is paid software, although a trial may be available. Windows licensing is a separate cost, so check both before installing.

Method 2: Run Windows Using VMware Fusion

VMware Fusion is another virtualization application that allows you to run Windows inside macOS. Here’s how to run Windows on a Mac using VMware:

• Download VMware Fusion from its official website.
• Install and open the application.
• Next, select the installation method to create a new virtual machine.

  

• Select a Windows installation image compatible with your Mac’s processor.
• Configure the virtual machine and follow the Windows installation prompts.

  

Now you can install and try to run what you want and check that they work correctly. VMware Fusion is worth considering if you prefer its interface or features. However, its setup process and integration options differ from Parallels.

Check the current documentation before choosing it, especially if your applications depend on specialized drivers, graphics features, or hardware.

Method 3: Install Windows Using Boot Camp

Boot Camp installs Windows on a separate partition of a compatible Intel Mac. Unlike virtualization, it runs Windows directly on the hardware. But you must restart your Mac to switch between Windows and macOS.

Here’s how to install Windows on Macs:

• First, back up your important files.
• Confirm that your Intel Mac supports Boot Camp.
• Obtain the supported Windows installation media.
• Open Boot Camp Assistant from Applications > Utilities, check both options, and click Continue.

  

• Follow the instructions to create a Windows partition.

  

• Install Windows on the designated BOOTCAMP partition.
• Complete setup and install Apple’s Windows support software.

After installation, you can choose which operating system to start when you turn on your Mac.

Method 4: Use Windows Through a Cloud PC

A cloud PC lets you use Windows hosted on a remote computer. Instead of installing Windows on your Mac, you connect through a supported application or browser.

Microsoft Windows 365 is one good option, particularly if your employer or organization provides access. Let’s look at how to get Windows apps on a Mac:

• Obtain access to a Windows 365 Cloud PC or another Windows computer configured for remote access.
• Open the supported client or web portal on Mac.
• Sign in with the account associated with your Windows environment.
• Select your available computer and connect.

  

• Open the application installed on that Windows system.

A cloud PC is useful when you need a managed work environment or want to avoid allocating storage and memory to a local virtual machine.

The main drawback is internet dependence. A weak connection can cause delays, while demanding applications require sufficient resources on the remote computer. Cloud PCs may also involve a recurring subscription.

Which Method Should You Choose to Run Windows in macOS?

Now you know how to use Windows on Mac in multiple ways. The best method to run or emulate Windows on Mac depends on your Mac’s processor, the applications you need, and whether you want Windows running locally or remotely.

Your Situation	Recommended Method
Apple Silicon Mac and everyday Windows applications	Parallels Desktop
You prefer an alternative virtualization tool	VMware Fusion
Compatible Intel Mac with an existing Boot Camp setup	Boot Camp, subject to Windows support limitations
Your employer provides a Windows desktop	Remote access or Windows 365
You need only one Windows application occasionally	Check for a macOS or browser-based version first

Before paying for any software, verify that your essential applications work with your chosen setup. Installing Windows successfully doesn’t guarantee every Windows program will run.

Final Thoughts

Running Windows on a Mac is no longer difficult. You can do that without replacing macOS or buying another computer. For most Apple Silicon users, Parallels Desktop is a practical starting point, while VMware Fusion provides an alternative. Compatible Intel Macs may offer additional legacy options, and cloud PCs allow you to access Windows without installing it locally.

Before choosing a method, check your processor, application compatibility, storage requirements, and Windows licensing. These checks will help you find a setup that meets your needs without unnecessary expense or troubleshooting.