Description

Parallels Desktop 20 license

Parallels Desktop 20 is the definitive release of Parallels’ flagship virtualization software for macOS, launched on September 10, 2024. It empowers Mac users—on both Intel and Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)—to seamlessly install and run multiple operating systems like Windows, Linux, or even macOS, all side-by-side with macOS, without the need for rebooting.

With hypervisor-based virtualization, Parallels Desktop 20 expertly maps your Mac’s hardware (CPU, RAM, GPU, USB, and network) to multiple virtual machines—each functioning as an independent computer. You have the flexibility to create as many virtual machines as you need and allocate resources to each guest system efficiently.

On this product page, we are proposing three edtions of Parallels Desktop 20:

1. Parallel Desktop 20 Standard
2. Parallel Desktop 20 Pro
3. Parallel Desktop 20 Business

What’s New in Parallels Desktop 20

• Introduces Parallels AI package, with pre-packaged VMs for offline AI development
• Fully compatible with macOS Sequoia (macOS 15), both as host and guest OS
• Improved support for Windows 11 24H2 on Apple Silicon Macs, including x86 app performance via Prism emulator
• Updated Parallels Tools, with greater stability across Windows/Linux/macOS guests
• New Enterprise Management Portal for Business/Enterprise editions
• Updates in versions 20.2 and beyond added features:
  • 20.2: x86 activation control, MDM-based activation enforcement, Touch ID installation support
  • 20.3: x86_64 emulation, OBS virtual camera inside Windows VMs, USB passthrough in macOS guests, Dragon Medical One integration

Editions Comparison: Standard vs Pro vs Business

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I upgrade from Parallels Desktop 19 or earlier?
A: Yes—customers who purchased Desktop 19 between Sept 1–Oct 31, 2024 via authorized suppliers may qualify for a free upgrade. Otherwise, paid upgrades are available via the Parallels website.

Q: How do I activate the license?
A: If upgrading, Parallels Desktop will auto-detect your previous key. Otherwise, you enter your license via Account & License → Enter Key. For managed Macs, IT admins can enforce license or SSO activation profiles.

Q: Can I run Parallels Desktop 20 on Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)?
A: Yes — Parallels Desktop 20 supports Apple Silicon Macs, macOS Sequoia compatibility, and optimized performance for Windows 11 x86 apps on M1+ processors.

Q: What’s included in the Parallels AI package?
A: AI-focused VMs for offline development, an AI toolbox, resource optimizations, and automation tools — available in Pro and Business editions only