How to Activate and Register Parallels Desktop

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Parallels Desktop is a popular virtualization software that allows Mac users to run Windows, Linux, or other operating systems alongside macOS. It is widely used by users who need access to applications specific to non-macOS environments or who want to test different operating systems on their Mac. To start using Parallels Desktop, you first need to activate and register the software. This guide will help you with the entire activation and registration process, ensuring you get the most out of this powerful tool.

System requirements

Before you proceed with the activation and registration process, you need to make sure that your system meets the requirements to run Parallels Desktop. At a minimum, your Mac must have:

• Intel Core i3 processor or better.
• At least 4GB of memory (though 8GB is recommended for better performance).
• Minimum 500MB disk space on the boot volume (for Parallels Desktop installation).
• Issue-specific additional hard disk space for virtual machines.
• macOS Mojave 10.14 or later, preferably the latest version of macOS.

Downloading and installing Parallels Desktop

To start Parallels Desktop activation, you first need to download and install the software. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Visit the official Parallels website.
2. Go to the Parallels Desktop section and download the latest version of the software.
3. Once the download is complete, open the installation file from your downloads folder.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Parallels Desktop on your Mac.
5. After the installation is complete, the Parallels Desktop application will launch automatically.

Activating Parallels Desktop

Once installed, the next important step is to activate Parallels Desktop. Activation requires a license key, which is a unique sequence provided when purchasing the software. Here is a step-by-step guide for activation:

1. Launch Parallels Desktop if it didn't start automatically.
2. You will see a dialog box for activation. Click “Activate” to begin.
3. Enter the license key. If you purchased the key from a third-party vendor, it should be in your email or account from the vendor site. If you purchased directly from Parallels, you can retrieve it from your Parallels account.
4. After entering the key, click “Activate”.
5. The software will verify the key. Make sure you have an active internet connection for this step.
6. If the key is valid, the application will show a confirmation message, and Parallels Desktop will be activated.

Registering Parallels Desktop

Registering your software is important for managing your license and gaining access to additional support and updates. Follow these steps to register Parallels Desktop:

1. Once you have activated the product, stay on the same screen. Click on “Register”.
2. Sign in to your Parallels account. If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one. Registration can typically be done using an email address and password or through a connected service such as Google or Apple.
3. Upon signing in, the software will automatically register your product under your account.
4. Check your email for any confirmation messages from Parallels.

Troubleshoot activation and registration issues

While activating and registering Parallels Desktop is usually a straightforward process, problems can sometimes arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Invalid license key: Double-check the license key for any typing errors. License keys are often a combination of letters and numbers, and they are case-sensitive.
• No internet connection: Make sure your internet is working properly. Activation often requires internet access to verify the authenticity of the license key.
• License limit exceeded: Some licenses are limited to a certain number of activations. Check the terms associated with your purchase or consider contacting Parallels support for assistance.
• Account issues: Make sure you can log in to your Parallels account. Password reset options are available if you can't access your account.

Benefits of activation and registration

By activating and registering your copy of Parallels Desktop, you receive several benefits:

• Product updates: Access to the latest updates and features for Parallels Desktop.
• Technical support: Official Parallels support services that can help with any issues you may encounter.
• License management: Easily manage your activation status across multiple devices through your Parallels account.

FAQs regarding activation and registration

Here are some frequently asked questions about activating and registering Parallels Desktop:

• Can I transfer my Parallels Desktop license to another Mac? Yes, you can transfer the license. You must first deactivate it on the current Mac through the license management options in your Parallels account, then activate it on the new Mac.
• What if I lose my license key? If purchased from an authorized seller or directly, you can usually obtain your license key through your Parallels account or customer support.
• Is activation required to use Parallels Desktop? Yes, activation is required to ensure your copy is genuine and to unlock all the functionality of the software.

Conclusion

Activating and registering your Parallels Desktop ensures that you can utilize all of its benefits to bring the power of multiple operating systems to your Mac. Although the process may seem overwhelming at first, following these detailed steps can make the process quite simple, especially with regard to common issues that may arise. As an added benefit, a registered and activated product automatically ensures your access to the latest features and support. By keeping track of your licenses and registrations through your Parallels account, you maintain both the efficiency and security of your use across different devices.

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