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If you have a Mac computer but need to run Windows 10 for specific programs or tasks, you don’t have to choose between the two operating systems. With the help of virtualization software, you can run both macOS and Windows 10 on the same computer. Here’s how to do it:
How to install Windows using virtualization software:
Choose virtualization software: There are many virtualization software options available, but some popular choices are Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion, and VirtualBox. Each software has its own benefits, so do some research to determine which one is best for your needs.
Install the virtualization software: Once you’ve chosen your virtualization Software, download and install it on your Mac computer.
Obtain a Windows 10 license: To run Windows 10 on your Mac, you’ll need to purchase a license. You can buy a license directly from Microsoft or from a third-party seller.
Create a Windows 10 virtual machine: After you have installed the virtualization software and obtained a Windows 10 license, it’s time to create a virtual machine. Open the virtualization software and follow the prompts to create a new virtual machine. During this process, you’ll be asked to allocate resources like memory and storage to the virtual machine.
Install Windows 10: With your virtual machine set up, it’s time to install Windows 10. Insert the Windows 10 installation media (such as a USB drive or CD) into your Mac computer and start the virtual machine. The virtual machine will detect the installation media and guide you through the Windows 10 installation process.
Install necessary Windows 10 software: After Windows 10 is installed, you can install any necessary software or applications that you need. Keep in mind that the virtual machine will have its own separate storage, so you’ll need to transfer any files or data you need between the two operating systems.
Switch between operating systems: With both macOS and Windows 10 installed on your computer, you can switch between the two operating systems whenever you need to. Simply open your virtualization software and start the virtual machine running the operating system you want to use.
How to install windows on a Mac partition:
If you want to install Windows on a Mac partition, you can use the built-in Boot Camp Assistant. Here’s how to do it:
Make sure you have enough free space: Before you start, make sure you have enough free space on your Mac hard drive to accommodate Windows. You’ll need at least 64 GB of free space.
Open Boot Camp Assistant: Open Boot Camp Assistant from the Applications > Utilities folder.
Create a Windows partition: In Boot Camp Assistant, select “Create a Windows 10 or later version install disk” and “Install Windows 10 or later version”. Choose the amount of space you want to allocate to Windows, then click “Install”.
Download Windows: Boot Camp Assistant will prompt you to download a Windows ISO file. You’ll need a valid Windows product key to continue.
Install Windows: Once the Windows ISO file has downloaded, Boot Camp Assistant will create a bootable USB drive. Insert the USB drive, then restart your Mac and hold down the Option key to access the boot menu. Select the Windows installer, then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Install drivers: After Windows has finished installing, you’ll need to install the necessary drivers. Boot Camp Assistant will automatically download and install the drivers for you.
Switch between macOS and Windows: Once you have both macOS and Windows installed on your Mac, you can switch between the two operating systems by restarting your computer and holding down the Option key to access the boot menu. Select the operating system you want to use, then press Enter.
Installing Windows on a Mac partition using Boot Camp Assistant is relatively straightforward. Just make sure you have enough free space on your hard drive, a valid Windows product key, and a USB drive to create a bootable installer.
