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How to Install Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop for Mac
Edited 1 week ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team
Parallels DesktopUbuntuLinuxmacOSInstallationVMVirtualizationSoftwareOperating SystemApple
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Installing Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop for Mac can be an exciting task for those who want to explore the versatility of using Linux alongside macOS. This guide has been crafted to guide you through the process step by step, providing a comprehensive understanding of how to accomplish this task, even if you are a novice. By the end of this guide, you should be able to easily run Ubuntu on your Mac using Parallels Desktop. Let’s dive into the long but rewarding journey of setting up Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop for Mac.
Understanding Parallels Desktop
First, it's important to understand what Parallels Desktop is. Parallels Desktop is software that allows you to run an additional operating system on your Mac. It creates a virtual environment where another OS can operate, acting as if it were running on its own hardware. This process is known as virtualization. By using this application, you're essentially allowing your Mac to run macOS as well as Windows, Linux, or any other operating system you choose. Parallels Desktop supports a wide variety of OS installations, making it a popular choice for many Mac users.
Preparing for installation
Before we dive into the installation process, let's take a look at the preparation steps you should perform. This includes checking the system requirements, downloading the necessary software, and any other preliminary steps.
System Requirements
To run Parallels Desktop efficiently, your Mac must meet certain system requirements. Make sure your device has enough RAM, at least 8GB is sufficient for basic tasks, but 16GB or more is better for running multiple applications seamlessly. Make sure your Mac has enough hard disk space, at least 20GB for the Parallels Desktop and Ubuntu installation, although it is advisable to have more for personal data storage. Your Mac should be running a relatively modern version of macOS, typically the last three major releases.
Downloading Parallels Desktop
Once you are convinced that your system meets these requirements, the next step is to download Parallels Desktop. You can download it from the official website of Parallels. They offer a free trial period, which allows you to test the software before making a purchase. After downloading the installer, proceed with the installation by launching the installer package and following the on-screen instructions.
Getting the Ubuntu ISO
Ubuntu is available for free from its official website. Download the latest version of the Ubuntu ISO file, which will be used as a virtual disk to install Ubuntu in Parallels Desktop. ISO is a digital format of optical disk that contains data to boot and run the OS.
Steps to install Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop
1. Launch Parallels Desktop
After installing Parallels Desktop, open the application from your Applications folder. You will see a new window that gives you several options to start a new virtual machine (VM).
2. Create a new virtual machine
On the Parallels Desktop Control Center, click the "+ New" button to begin creating a new VM. Parallels will guide you through creating a new VM using their installation assistant.
3. Choose the installation media
You will be asked to choose the installation source. Use the "Install Windows or another OS from DVD or image file" option. Click Continue and proceed to the next step.
4. Select the Ubuntu image
Parallels Desktop will search for ISO files in your downloads. If it doesn't automatically find the Ubuntu ISO, click the "Search manually" button to browse your system and select the Ubuntu ISO you downloaded earlier. After making the selection, click Continue.
5. Detecting the operating system
Parallels should automatically recognize the Ubuntu ISO as Linux. If it doesn't automatically select Ubuntu, manually select Linux, then Ubuntu from the list of operating systems. This helps optimize the VM settings for Ubuntu.
6. Select the virtual machine configuration
You will now be asked to configure the virtual machine. Parallels provides you with options to choose how you want to set up Ubuntu - either using an "express installation" or manually with a custom configuration.
If you choose the Express installation, Parallels will apply default configurations for RAM, CPU, graphics, and other resources. This is recommended for first-time users for ease of setup.
Alternatively, if you want to manually adjust hardware allocation, select "Optimize settings before installation." This is beneficial if your Mac has limited resources, as it allows you to allocate resources according to your needs. Click Continue when you're done.
7. Customize your installation (optional)
If you chose to customize the settings, the VM configuration window opens. You can adjust the settings based on your Mac's hardware specifications, such as increasing or decreasing the RAM or CPU cores allocated to Ubuntu. Once satisfied, close the configuration window to proceed.
8. Start the installation
Once everything is configured, click Continue to begin the Ubuntu installation process. Parallels Desktop will use the selected settings to begin the process.
9. Complete the Ubuntu installation
The virtual machine will start, and you will see the Ubuntu installation screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Ubuntu. These instructions include setting language preferences, time zone, keyboard layout, and creating a username and password. Make sure you select "Install Ubuntu" and not "Try Ubuntu" when prompted during the initial screen.
During setup, you are given options for software installation such as minimal installation or normal installation that includes daily use applications. Choose as per your preference.
10. Installation is complete
After following all the setup instructions, Ubuntu will begin the installation process, which may take a few minutes. After completion, you will be asked to restart the VM to complete the installation. Upon reboot, log in with the username and password you created during setup.
Configuring Ubuntu for optimal use
Now that Ubuntu is installed, there are some optional steps to configure and extend the functionality of Ubuntu.
Install Parallels Tools
Parallels Tools is a suite of utilities designed to enhance the integration of the guest OS with your primary OS on Mac. Installing it provides better mouse cursor handling, display resolution support, and shared folders functionality.
To install Parallels Tools, click the Actions menu at the top of the Parallels window, then choose Install Parallels Tools. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
Update Ubuntu
Keeping Ubuntu updated ensures the installation of the latest software packages. Open the terminal in Ubuntu and type the following commands to update and upgrade the system:
sudo apt update sudo apt upgradeThis ensures that your installation is up to current standards in terms of security and software version.
Configure shared folders
To conveniently transfer files between macOS and Ubuntu, set up shared folders. First, set up a folder to share on your Mac by clicking the Actions menu, then Configure and choosing the Sharing tab. Add the folder you want to share. Then, access it on Ubuntu by navigating to the /media/psf directory in the file manager.
Troubleshooting tips
During installation or use, you may encounter some problems. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Ubuntu won't boot or is very slow
Make sure your VM has enough RAM and CPU resources. If Ubuntu fails to launch or runs slow, go to the VM configuration and allocate more resources such as memory and processing power if available.
Performance issues
If the display does not look right after installation, verify that Parallels Tools is installed correctly as it provides the drivers necessary for optimal screen performance.
Network connectivity issues
If Ubuntu has trouble connecting to the Internet, check the VM's network settings. Make sure it's configured to use the shared network adapter, which typically provides uninterrupted Internet access through the host machine's network.
Conclusion
Installing Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop for Mac creates a robust environment for development, educational exploration, or an additional OS for everyday use. Following these instructions carefully will ensure a smooth installation and efficient use of Ubuntu on your Mac device. Whether using Ubuntu for software development, database management, or learning Linux ins and outs, this setup allows for harmonious coexistence of macOS and Ubuntu.
Hopefully this guide has provided the clarity and information you need to successfully install Ubuntu on Parallels Desktop on your Mac. Enjoy exploring the world of Ubuntu and Linux in the comfort of your Mac ecosystem!
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