Windows 11 on Apple Silicon: A Seamless Experience Awaits
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Windows 11 on Mac
With the latest advancements, installing Windows 11 on a Mac equipped with Apple Silicon is now an effortless task.
Photo by Vinayak Sharma on Unsplash
Microsoft has collaborated with Parallels to enable the installation of Windows 11 for ARM architecture within the Parallels application. This means you can set up Windows 11 with just a click, simplifying the entire process. The software manages both the download and installation, making it much more user-friendly. Currently, Parallels stands out as one of the primary methods for running Windows on Apple Silicon devices.
In the past, users relied on Boot Camp to install Windows alongside macOS, allowing for a choice of operating systems at startup. However, with the transition to Apple’s own Silicon, this option has been discontinued. Fortunately, Parallels has evolved to ensure that Windows operates even better on these devices.
Section 1.1: Virtualization with Parallels
As mentioned, Parallels offers a robust solution for virtualizing Windows on macOS, and it remains one of the few effective options available today. Competing applications like UTM and VMware Fusion exist, but they often lack the efficiency of Parallels.
Let’s explore how Windows performs within this virtualization context. Parallels comes equipped with features that cater to users' needs, including native support for Apple Silicon and a streamlined installation process for Windows 11.
Despite the virtualization process consuming some system resources, the performance remains impressive, with smooth operation from installation to daily use. For instance, we tested Windows 11 on a Mac mini M1 (2020, 8-core GPU), the first generation of Apple’s custom chipsets.
This video demonstrates the ease of running Windows 11 ARM on Macs using VMware Fusion, showcasing the capabilities of virtualization.
Chapter 2: The Future of Windows on Mac
Interestingly, there appears to be a growing trend: the best Windows experience might now be on a Mac. The system operates as if you are using both operating systems simultaneously without the need for constant switching, similar to working with multiple desktops.
File sharing between the two systems is also possible, though some applications may not handle shared Mac folders well during installation. In those cases, it’s advisable to temporarily disable the feature.
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This video provides a step-by-step guide on installing Windows 11 on M1/M2 Macs using Parallels 18, making the process even more accessible for users.