You can copy and paste material between Mac programs and Windows programs, and drag files between the two operating systems. Going Back and ForthĮither way, you can switch back and forth between this virtual Windows computer and your regular Mac environment.

You can run Windows programs on your Mac either in one large window that displays the Windows desktop and taskbar, or in a mode that allows the Windows programs you run to simply appear on the Mac as if they were Mac programs, without the Windows desktop. Within this virtual machine, you can install a copy of Windows you’ve purchased and it will behave like a faux Windows computer, compatible with the same programs as a physical Windows PC. Parallels works by creating a so-called virtual machine inside your Mac.

It did work, but like similar mobile programs for controlling PCs, I found it a bit awkward to use. I am less sanguine about this product, which also goes on sale Thursday, for an introductory price of $5 (the regular price is $20). I also tested a new companion Parallels Mobile iPad and iPhone app, which allows you to remotely control both your Mac and Windows running on your Mac.

Parallels Desktop 7 lets Windows programs, like Excel on the left, appear on the Mac as if they were Mac programs, without the Windows desktop.