14 DAY TRIAL // Parallels has issued a software update for its powerful virtualization solution, Parallels Desktop for Mac. Supported even on Mac OS X 10.4.11 (Tiger), Parallels can now effectively run Windows 7 inside a virtual machine on a Mac, according to the company.
Following the release of Windows 7, Parallels immediately issued an update for its software virtualization solution, noting (PDF) that Parallels Desktop 4.0 for Mac Update (build 4.0.3848) increased compatibility with Windows 7. Parallels even beats Apple in the race to support Windows 7.
According to a Support document posted by the Mac maker yesterday, Apple is adding support for Windows 7 in Boot Camp, but only on Snow Leopard. As noted above, Parallels’ solution runs on Mac OS X 10.4.11 (Tiger) through Mac OS X 10.6 (Snow Leopard), provided the Mac is an Intel-based one.
Although VMWare also supports Windows 7 guests in its Fusion virtualization tool, the company is yet to issue its own update confirming compatibility with the Windows 7 build having made a public appearance on October 22nd.
According to its makers, Parallels Desktop 4.0 for Mac addresses two primary user concerns: security and backup. Parallels Internet Security, powered by Kaspersky for the anti-virus, firewall, scanner, recovery, filtering and identity protection, as well as Acronis True Image Home backup and restore and Acronis Disk Director Suite are said to offer users more peace of mind when using their preferred OS.
Parallels Desktop 4.0 for Mac costs $79.99, while existing users benefit from discounts and even free upgrades, depending on their current status (software version). If you are new to the software, you can try it out for 15 days for free – all features enabled.