The biggest highlight is the new Parallels AI package, offering secure, downloadable pre-packaged virtual machines to quickly enhance AI developing skills in an offline environment.  

Parallels Desktop 20 is also ready for macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2 and introduces a new Management Portal as a part of the new Enterprise Edition. It offers numerous updates for Windows, macOS and Linux VMs.  

Try Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac now – it is better than ever.  

PS. Read all the way to the end for a fun Easter egg!  

Ready for macOS Sequoia 15 

The new Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac supports the upcoming macOS Sequoia (when released), improves the application stability on this operating system, and allows Mac users to enjoy AI-powered Writing Tools with Windows apps (requires macOS Sequoia 15.1).  

Preview macOS Sequoia 15 using Parallels Desktop. 

This version decreases the use of deprecated APIs for content capture (such as CGDisplayStream and CGWindowListCreateImage), which now trigger system alerts that indicate they might be able to collect detailed information about the user. Instead, it moves to the recommended macOS API to ensure security and compliance. 

In addition, macOS Sequoia provides the ability to sign in to Apple ID in macOS virtual machines on Apple silicon!  

This long-awaited improvement allows developers to fully leverage macOS virtual machines for building and testing software in an isolated environment.  

With Parallels Desktop for Mac, it is so easy to install a new macOS virtual machine on Apple silicon.  

Ready for Windows 11 24H2 

Improving the stability and integration of this major Windows 11 update in a virtual environment has been a major goal since Windows 11 24H2 appeared in the Canary channel in early 2024. 

These efforts include fixes for the NVMe driver, express Windows 11 installation on Intel-based Mac computers, mouse cursor positioning, and a fix for the dynamic resolution to sustain the ability to resize a Windows 11 VM window with automatic resolution adjustments.  

From the Microsoft side, optimizations for the new major Windows 11 version 24H2 ensure users’ workflows remain uninterrupted while running legacy Windows apps (built for the Intel platform) and get up to 80% performance boost^[1] for certain computational workloads thanks to the improved Prism emulator built into Windows 11 on Arm OS.  

State of Windows apps on Apple silicon Macs 

Contrary to popular belief, most Windows apps run just fine in Windows 11 on Arm – the version of Windows OS users run on a Mac with Apple silicon.  

With the increased adoption of Apple silicon, Parallels Desktop became an essential tool for many professionals who need access to the Windows OS ecosystem – our customers happily run more than 200,000 Windows apps on their computers. 

Parallels is proud to be the first Microsoft-authorized solution for running Arm versions of Windows 11 on Mac, helping to amplify the adoption of the Arm platform by software developers.  

The latest release offers improved compatibility with ArcGIS Pro, LabVIEW, Ninja Trader, and other applications so you can now seamlessly install and run on a Mac with Apple silicon—all with the help of Parallels Desktop for Mac.  

It’s also great to see software companies shift their strategy and start delivering product updates that run natively in Windows 11 on Arm which means more apps will soon become available for Apple silicon users. Recent examples include Malwarebytes ThreatDown, Opera browser, Adobe Illustrator, LibreOffice, and others. 

Streamline your development workflow 

The Parallels Desktop 20 release reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering the best environment for developers to build, automate, and test solutions on every major operating system (Windows, Linux, and macOS).  

Let’s start with the Visual Studio Code extension for Parallels Desktop. This tool allows you to create and manage your Parallels Desktop virtual machines from a single user interface — and it’s becoming a popular choice, with over 50,000 downloads and counting.  

• This release introduces the ability to control virtual machines using natural language with Microsoft Copilot integrated into the Parallels Visual Studio Code extension.   

• DevOps and developers can use Parallels Desktop GitHub Actions to transform their CI/CD workflows, automating the deployment and management of virtual machines directly from their GitHub repository. Imagine triggering VM provisioning, testing, and configuration automatically as part of your GitHub Actions pipeline, eliminating manual steps, reducing errors, and accelerating your development process.  

• Enjoy the convenience of the Parallels Desktop DevOps Service to manage and orchestrate multiple Parallels Desktop hosts and virtual machines. Built to cater to the unique needs of DevOps teams, developers, and IT administrators, this service offers robust tools and automation capabilities that simplify the management of complex environments, enabling you to accelerate your software delivery process. 

• Perhaps the most exciting feature of this release is the introduction of the Parallels AI Package, now available in the extension catalog. These allow developers to start working and experimenting with AI at a low cost, with quick onboarding, and the ability to test on different configurations, including those without network access. Interested? Read more about AI VMs. 

You can also join our Discord server to ask questions, share your experience, and get help from the community. 

If you’re interested in macOS virtual machines…  

For developers and DevOps who run macOS virtual machines on a Mac with Apple silicon, the new version delivers:  

• New! The ability to use snapshots to quickly save and restore the system state for an even more flexible development and testing process.  

• An improved Parallels Packer plugin for a faster macOS VM installation in express mode, automating the initial setup process using Apple Vision framework (OCR).  

• An enhanced Parallels executor for GitLab runner that now allows the use of macOS VMs on Apple silicon Mac computers.  

Improvements for Linux fans 

The Parallels Desktop team has listened to your feedback about the issues when running the newly released kernels inside Parallels Desktop virtual machines.  

It’s well-known that the newest Linux kernels can sometimes be unstable and lead to compatibility challenges. However, we didn’t just acknowledge the issue — we took the first step to solve it. 

Through careful analysis, the team discovered that nearly 50% of the reported issues were related to the Shared Folder driver operating within the kernel space.  

Tackling this required adopting the high-level FUSE API, which should significantly reduce installation issues caused by kernel API changes in the near future.  

This enhancement is designed to improve compatibility and ensure seamless support for future Linux distributions, reaffirming our commitment to providing you with a reliable and consistent virtualization experience. 

This change also allowed us to improve performance for certain operations. You will feel the speed improvements when working with the volumes shared from Mac — now up to 4x faster than before^[2].  

Introducing Management Portal and Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition — coming later this fall 

I’m excited to announce a significant update that transforms how IT administrators manage Parallels Desktop virtual machines across their organizations. 

The changes are based on user feedback, particularly how IT administrators have expressed the need for more advanced tools to manage their Parallels Desktop environments.  

Common requests included the ability to control virtual machines remotely from a single interface, centralized monitoring of VM performance across the entire organization, and a more convenient way to deploy the virtual machines to endpoint Macs.  

The Parallels Desktop team has taken this feedback to heart and are thrilled to introduce the Management Portal, which addresses these needs head-on.  

To complement the release of the Management Portal, the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Edition is now available—it’s our most advanced offering yet.  

Created for organizations that need more control, visibility, and efficiency in managing their large-scale virtual environments, the new Edition unlocks access to the new Management Portal. 

And that’s just the beginning. The Enterprise Edition is packed with enhancements that will empower your IT team to operate more effectively and efficiently than ever before. 

Stay tuned for further updates! If you’re eager to be among the first to experience these new capabilities, reach out to our sales team today for more details and to arrange an exclusive demo: https://www.parallels.com/products/desktop/enterprise/.  

Streamline the deployment process  

In the world of IT management, seamless software deployment is crucial.  

However, some IT admins using Parallels Desktop have recently faced a challenging roadblock when deploying the application through some Mobile Device Management (MDM) providers.  

The issue stemmed from the bundle structure of the deployment package, which, while powerful, was not widely supported by many MDM providers, e.g., Microsoft Intune.  

As a result, admins were forced to find workarounds, such as deploying the software via custom scripts. Additionally, our customers reported the package can’t be run on Mac computers with macOS Sequoia.   

The latest release introduces support for converting the existing bundle package into a flat package format, which is compatible with most MDM providers.  

This simple yet powerful change ensures that IT admins can now deploy Parallels Desktop without resorting to complex scripts.  

The flat package format maintains all the essential capabilities of the original bundle, including the ability to pass a license, configure policies, and deploy VMs with precision.   

For MDMs with file size limitations, admins can now link a cloud-stored VM in the package, streamlining large deployments. The option to include the VM file in the package remains available.  

To further enhance the deployment experience, Parallels has added the ability to always deploy the latest version of the Parallels Desktop application without needing to bundle the DMG file with each package.  

This ensures that IT admins can use the time they used to spend on building a new package on other crucial tasks.  

These advancements mark a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to improving the IT admin experience. With these new features, deploying Parallels Desktop across a network of Macs is simpler and more flexible than ever before.  

Can’t wait? You can give it a try now: https://www.parallels.com/products/business/download/. 

Parallels Desktop 20: The latest in a long line of innovations 

Many years ago, a small group of enthusiasts embarked on a journey to create a product that, year after year, captured the hearts of more and more users worldwide: be it a Windows lover, a student, a developer, or an IT admin – Parallels is proud to serve so many different people worldwide.  

Fun fact: Parallels Desktop launched publicly in June 2006 with version 2.5, which makes this release not an anniversary by age but rather yet another round number release. Stay tuned for anniversary easter eggs in 2026 . 

Years later, Parallels Desktop became the leading solution for running Windows, Linux, and even macOS in a virtual environment – the only solution authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 on a Mac with Apple silicon! 

And this is only the beginning. Look for more enhancements in the near future, making deployment and management an even smoother process for IT admins worldwide. Stay tuned for what’s next!  

New to Parallels Desktop for Mac? Get your 14-day free trial of Parallels Desktop 20.0.0 now.   

• _{[1] – Performance measurements conducted by Parallels by comparing the score produced by the x86 version of the test Floating Point Math from the Passmark 10 CPU Mark suite in Windows 23H2 (10.0.22621.3593) versus Windows 24H2 (10.0.26120.670) on MacBook Pro (M2 Max, (8+4) CPU, 96GiB RAM) with the virtual machine (4 CPU, 32GiB RAM). Measured using Parallels Desktop public version 19.4.1. The performance may vary based on usage, system configuration, and other factors.} 
• _{[2] – Performance measurements conducted by Parallels by measuring the time it takes to copy 3000 (three thousand) files in 315 directories from the primary macOS 13.3 (22E252) to the Ubuntu Linux virtual machine (4 CPU, 8GiB RAM, Ubuntu Server 22.04) on MacBook Air (M2, (4+4) CPU, 32GiB RAM). Measured with a prerelease version of Parallels Desktop 20 versus the released version of Parallels Desktop 19. The performance may vary based on usage, system configuration, and other factors.} 

The post What’s new in Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Well, I’ve got some great news for you — Parallels Desktop makes it easy for you to explore Sanctuary on your beloved Mac.  

No longer do you have to be limited by compatibility issues; instead, get ready to join the countless PC gamers in this action-packed adventure that they can’t stop talking about.  

I’ll guide you every step of the way to use Parallels Desktop so that your venture into Diablo is triumphant. 

Smoother graphics and faster performance are guaranteed as this extraordinary program ensures that nothing stands in between you and your epic adventures! 

Ready to transform your Mac into a gaming powerhouse? Get Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition now and unleash your inner demon slayer! 

How to play Diablo on a Mac 

Ready to save Sanctuary? With Parallels Desktop Pro, you can quickly and easily install Diablo onto your Mac. Here’s how.  

1. Purchase and install Parallels Desktop Pro 

Get started by heading over to the official website and grabbing a copy of Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition. Download it and get to installing.  

2. Install Windows on your Mac 

Open Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition, click through instructions, then grab a valid Windows license key or installation media to finish things off.  

3. Adjust the virtual machine settings 

Once you’ve installed Windows, head into the Parallels Desktop Control Center under “Hardware” to allocate sufficient RAM, CPU, and GPU resources to ensure smooth gameplay. 

4. Optimize Parallels Desktop for gaming 

In the Control Center, select “Preferences” and choose the “Optimization” tab. Enable “Optimize for games” to further enhance your Diablo gaming experience. 

5. Install Diablo  

Now get your hands on the BattleNet client from Blizzard Entertainment’s website.  

Follow some more instructions on-screen until you’ve downloaded and installed Diablo within your virtual machine environment 

6. Configure game settings 

Launch Diablo within your Windows virtual machine and head to the in-game settings menu.  

Adjust the video and audio settings to your preferences and ensure that the game is running how you like.  

7. Start playing Diablo on your Mac 

You’re now ready to slay evil forces with ultimate precision using your favorite operating system.  

Can Diablo 2: Resurrected be played on a Mac? 

Diablo 2: Resurrected, similar to Diablo 3, is not natively compatible with Mac.  

Simply follow the steps outlined in the section above to play the game on a Mac. You can also use these steps to play Diablo Immortal. You’ll be slaying monsters in no time! 

Play Diablo on Mac with Parallels Desktop 

Gearing up for an epic journey into Diablo or the vast world of PC gaming?  

Parallels Desktop offers Mac users a powerful and versatile virtualization solution without compromising performance or user experience.  

No more rebooting, no need to own multiple devices – this top-tier software ensures that graphics and gameplay remain smooth while you explore your favorite games.  

So, if you’re ready to set out on a captivating adventure, equip yourself with the best tool available — Parallels Desktop — and get ready for full immersion! 

Ready to transform your Mac into a gaming powerhouse? Get Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition now and unleash your inner demon slayer! 

The post Unleash your inner demon slayer: Playing Diablo on a Mac with Parallels Desktop appeared first on Parallels Blog.

I’m thrilled to announce the release of our latest Parallels Desktop update, 19.4.0. It offers improvements and fixes based on your valuable feedback.  

Our Product and Engineering teams have been closely monitoring your needs and working hard to ensure Parallels Desktop continues to deliver a seamless and powerful experience.  

See what’s new in this 19.4.0 update. 

Enhanced compatibility with Windows apps on Apple silicon Macs 

Compatibility with NinjaTrader, Mathematica, and other apps 

We’ve received numerous requests from customers facing issues with apps that can’t properly work with network folders.  

For example, the NinjaTrader app would not start by default if you had enabled “Mirror Mac and Windows user folders” feature in the virtual machine’s configuration.  

We’ve reworked how Mac user folders (Documents, Desktop, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Movies) are presented in Windows to address this issue. 

Previously, Mac folders were available in Windows via a network share. For example, the NinjaTrader app would not start when installed from a network location in Windows. Other Windows apps may have errors when saving project files to a network location.  

We’ve implemented a new approach using symbolic links in Parallels Desktop 19.4.0.  

These symbolic links act like pointers that direct Windows applications to the actual location of your Mac’s shared folders while still appearing to be located on the local Windows C drive.  

This new approach allows Windows applications to work with Mac user folders the same way as they do with native Windows folders, without encountering compatibility issues. 

If you’re interested in running NinjaTrader, Mathematica, or other apps that didn’t work before, give them a try and share your feedback with us in our forums or in the comments of this post! 

Compatibility with LabVIEW 

Some of you have encountered serious issues installing LabVIEW in Windows 11 on Arm, particularly experiencing the crash (BSOD) after restarting Windows.  

Our research indicated that this issue stemmed from Windows drivers compatibility issues between Intel x86_64 and Arm architectures. This compatibility problem prevented the OS from loading correctly and resulting in the dreaded BSOD. 

Although we can’t modify the LabVIEW app directly, we have discovered that the underlying problem stems from the app loading its x86 drivers prior to the Windows drivers. This sequence disrupts the proper loading of Windows.  

We previously released a KB article that provides a workaround, but customers have still reported challenges, resulting in roadblocks when working with LabVIEW in Windows 11 on Arm. 

 In response, we’ve implemented a fix to resolve this issue, ensuring that Windows will no longer boot into BSOD after a restart. For more details, refer to our updated KB article. 

Running Microsoft SQL Server on Apple Silicon 

Many customers, including students and developers, have requested the ability to run Microsoft SQL Server in Windows 11 on a Mac with Apple silicon, while the MS SQL Server is not fully compatible with Windows on Arm today.  

The use cases are different. Examples include:  

1. Developers who need to have an SQL database for application development, which is convenient because Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code work well in Windows 11 on Arm. 

2. Students who want to work with SQL Server and connect to it from SQL Management Studio — which also works well in Windows 11.  

3. People who want to install certain Windows software that requires an SQL database.  

Given the current compatibility challenges, we’ve explored various solutions and are excited to introduce a new approach. 

In the past, we used to offer our customers various solutions, but those didn’t work for many users. Today, we believe that one of the most useful solutions would be to create an Ubuntu VM with x86_64 emulation and a preinstalled Docker engine.  

This setup allows you to get Microsoft SQL Server running with a single command, making it easy to connect from Visual Studio, VS Code, or SQL Server Management Studio within your Windows VM. Detailed instructions can be found in our KB article.  

This update will guide you through this process if you attempt to install SQL Server 2019/2022 in a Windows VM. 

Improved integration with macOS 

Many users enjoy using macOS Spotlight to search for applications. However, some have found it confusing when similar app names appear for their Mac and Windows/Linux apps.  

To address this issue, we’ve added OS badge icons to the medium-sized icons of shared apps in Spotlight. This visual cue will help you quickly identify which OS the app belongs to without affecting your Dock icons. 

Command line utility improvements (only Pro and Business Editions) 

We love our developer and tester community, and we are continually working to improve your experience with Parallels Desktop. 

New reclaim-disk action 

You can now reclaim disk space in a shutdown VM using the prlctl Command Line Utility. To reclaim free disk space, simply execute: 

prlctl reclaim-disk <VM_name or VM_id> 

Network conditioner control 

The network conditioner is an excellent tool for users to test their applications under different network conditions and loads. We want to provide a way for this to be controlled in an automated way using prlctl.  

There are two arguments supported for prlctl set now: –network conditioner and –network-conditioner-profile. For example, to run the network conditioner, execute the command below: 

prlctl set <VM_name or VM_id> –network-conditioner on 

Extended output for prlctl list -i 

We’ve extended the output information of the prlctl list -i command to include the IP address of running VMs, network throttling status, and whether the VM is a clone of another VM.  

Here’s an example command: 

prlctl list -i <VM_name or VM_id> 

For more details, check out the Parallels Desktop developer’s guide. 

Bug fixes 

We’ve resolved an issue affecting our Business Edition customers. The download link in an invitation email from My Account would not activate the product with the assigned license.  We’ve restored this functionality, ensuring a smoother onboarding process for your team members. 

We’ve successfully addressed an issue in which the app windows for SolidWorks, Delphi, Grammarly, and other Windows applications running in Coherence view mode were displayed as blank windows. 

We’re committed to continuously improving Parallels Desktop and appreciate your feedback and support. We hope you enjoy these enhancements, and as always, we look forward to hearing your thoughts! You can post in our forums or make a comment on this post with your feedback.  

New to Parallels Desktop for Mac? Get your 14-day free trial of Parallels Desktop 19.4.0 now.  

The post Introducing Parallels Desktop 19.4.0! appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Look no further! Parallels® Desktop is thrilled to be part of the upcoming Penn MacAdmins event, the premier East Coast conference for anyone who deploys and manages devices in the Apple ecosystem.  

We’ll showcase our innovative solutions tailored specifically for IT administrators in educational settings and DevOps professionals. 

Why Parallels Desktop for IT admins and DevOps? 

As IT admins and DevOps professionals, you face the challenge of managing diverse computing environments and ensuring seamless operation across platforms.  

Parallels Desktop offers a comprehensive solution for integrating Windows applications into Mac environments, simplifying your tasks and enhancing your efficiency. 

What to expect at the Penn MacAdmins event 

Join us for an in-depth exploration of how Parallels Desktop can revolutionize your IT and DevOps management: 

Live demos 

Experience the power of Parallels Desktop firsthand with live demonstrations designed to showcase its robust features and seamless integration capabilities. 

Expert insights 

Gain valuable insights from our team of Parallels Desktop experts, who will share best practices, tips, and tricks for optimizing IT management in mixed-platform environments. 

Parallels Desktop workshop session 

Join us for the working session: “Virtual Machines: New in Deployment, Development, and Testing”. 

Led by Aleksandr Sursiakov, Senior Director of Product Management for Parallels Desktop, this workshop will delve into the latest advancements in using virtual machines (VMs) on Apple Silicon Mac computers for deployment, development, and testing. 

Key topics include the status and challenges of VM deployment, solutions for both Windows and macOS VMs, and practical insights for IT admins and DevOps professionals. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on optimizing VM use to enhance efficiency and streamline workflows. 

Why IT Admins and DevOps professionals should explore Parallels Desktop 

• Simplify management: Parallels Desktop simplifies IT management by enabling seamless integration of Windows applications into Mac environments, reducing complexity and streamlining workflows. 
• Increase efficiency: Efficiently deploy and manage Windows applications on Mac devices, saving time and resources. 
• Enhance security: Robust security features protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry regulations, providing peace of mind. 

Event details 

• Date: July 9-12 
• Location: Penn Star Conference Center and Hotel in State College, PA 
• Event Website: https://macadmins.psu.edu/ 

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how Parallels Desktop can transform IT and DevOps management within your organization.  

Join us at the Penn Mac Admins event and learn how to streamline workflows, increase efficiency, and enhance security with Parallels Desktop.  

Learn more about Parallels Desktop today.  

The post Join us at the Penn Mac Admins event: Empower your educational IT and DevOps teams appeared first on Parallels Blog.

However, testing can be time-consuming and resource-intensive, especially when testing software components on different operating systems and configurations. These use cases are where using virtual machines (VMs) to test software comes to the rescue. 

A VM is a software-based emulation of a physical computer that allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical computer.  

VMs are indispensable tools for software testing, offering flexibility, scalability, and reproducibility in testing environments.  

Virtual machines also make it easier to test different configurations without affecting the host operating system. 

This guide will explore how to leverage virtual machines for efficient and effective software testing. 

Understanding the benefits of virtual machines for software testing: 

Virtual machines have become an indispensable tool for software testing. They provide a range of benefits, including isolation, reproducibility, scalability, and flexibility. 

1. Isolation  

VMs provide isolated environments for testing, allowing testers to create and test different software components and dependencies without any conflicts. This isolation is particularly important for complex software systems, where conflict between components can have severe consequences. 

2. Reproducibility 

VM snapshots allow testers to create and revert to specific states of the testing environment. This ease of replication ensures that test results are consistent and reproducible, which is essential for evaluating software quality. 

3. Scalability

A critical aspect of software testing is the ability to easily clone and deploy testing environments to enable parallel testing of multiple software configurations. This scalability helps improve testing efficiency and reduce the time and resources required for testing. It’s especially useful for large-scale projects. 

4. Flexibility

VMs like Parallels Desktop support multiple operating systems and configurations, allowing testers to simulate diverse environments and scenarios and ensure that you are testing software under a range of conditions. This flexibility is particularly important for identifying and addressing potential issues across different environments. 

Creating reproducible testing environments 

One of the significant challenges of software testing is creating a reproducible testing environment. A testing environment should be identical to the production environment, ensuring the software behaves in a similar fashion. VMs provide an easy way to create and manage reproducible testing environments. 

To create reproducible testing environments using virtual machines, follow these steps:

1. Choose a hypervisor  

To host your virtual machines, select a hypervisor such as Parallels Desktop.

2. Develop base images  

Develop base images containing the desired operating system, configuration, and software dependencies as in the production environment. 

3. Customize VM settings 

You can customize VM settings such as CPU, memory, disk space, and network configuration to match testing requirements. 

4. Install testing tools 

 Install testing frameworks, debuggers, and other tools necessary for VM tests. 

5. Take snapshots  

Take snapshots of the VM at various stages of the testing process to capture specific states for later reference or rollback. 

Following these steps, you can install the software you want to test on the VM in a controlled environment. If the software behaves differently in the testing environment, you can identify and fix the issue before deploying it to the production environment. 

Example: You’re testing a web application requiring specific web server versions, databases, and middleware. You can create a base VM image with the required software stack installed and configured. By taking snapshots before and after each iteration, you can quickly revert to a clean state and ensure consistent testing conditions. 

Utilizing snapshots for testing scenarios 

Another advantage of using VMs for software testing is the ability to take snapshots of the VM at different stages of testing.  

Snapshots are invaluable for testing scenarios where you must revert to a known state, compare different test outcomes, test different configurations, or perform multiple iterations of the same test. 

Here’s how to effectively utilize snapshots for software testing: 

1. Before-test snapshots  

Before running tests, take snapshots of the VM to capture the initial state of the testing environment. This snapshot lets you easily revert to a clean state if tests fail or produce unexpected results. 

2. After-test snapshots 

Take snapshots after completing tests to preserve the state of the environment and any changes made during testing. These post-test snapshots provide a reference point for analyzing test results and debugging issues. 

3. Branching snapshots  

Create branching snapshots to explore alternative test scenarios or configurations without affecting the primary testing environment. This step allows testers to experiment with different configurations or test cases while maintaining the integrity of the base environment. 

4. Snapshot management

Maintain a structured approach to snapshot management, including naming conventions, documentation of snapshot purposes, and regular cleanup to avoid cluttering the VM environment with unnecessary snapshots. 

Example: You’re testing a software update. Before applying the update, you can take a snapshot of the VM to capture the pre-update state.  

If something goes wrong during the update, you can quickly revert to the pre-update snapshot and investigate the issue. 

After you’ve applied the update and run your tests, you can take another snapshot to preserve the post-update state. This snapshot will help you identify any changes that occurred after the update and determine the root cause of any issues that may have arisen. 

Taking snapshots is a great way to ensure you can quickly troubleshoot and investigate any issues that may arise during software testing. They also save you time and resources, as you don’t have to recreate the entire testing environment each time you want to run a test. 

Optimizing VM configurations for testing different software components 

When testing software, you may need to test different components on different operating systems and configurations. VMs allow you to create and manage different configurations to test software components expediently. You can create a VM for each configuration, install the required software, and test the software in an isolated environment. 

To optimize VM configurations for testing different software components, you can allocate resources such as CPU, memory, and disk space based on the software’s requirements while testing against different real-world conditions with the network, such as slow clients, a drop in the internet connection, etc.  

For example, if you are testing a memory-intensive application, you can allocate more memory to the VM. If you are testing a CPU-intensive application, you can allocate more CPU resources to the VM. 

Consider the following factors when optimizing VM configurations for testing different software components: 

1. Resource allocation  

Allocate sufficient CPU, memory, and disk space to each VM to ensure optimal performance during testing. Adjust resource allocations based on the requirements of the software you’re testing and the complexity of test scenarios. 

2. Networking setup

Configure virtual networks that simulate various network conditions, such as latency, packet loss, and bandwidth constraints. This setup allows testers to evaluate software’s performance and resilience under different network conditions. 

3. Integration with testing tools  

Integrate VMs with testing tools and automation frameworks to streamline the testing process. These integrations include configuring VMs to interact with testing scripts, reporting tools, and version control systems for efficient test execution and result analysis. 

4. Environment configuration management  

Implement version control and configuration management practices to track changes to VM configurations and ensure consistency across testing environments. This capability helps avoid discrepancies between testing environments and promotes reproducibility of test results. 

Example: You’re testing a distributed system that spans multiple VMs. You can optimize VM configurations by allocating more resources to VMs hosting critical components and simulating network conditions to replicate real-world scenarios.  

Integrating VMs with testing tools like Jenkins or Selenium allows you to automate test execution and streamline the testing workflow. 

Examples of leveraging virtual machines for software testing 

Let’s look at examples of using virtual machines for software testing. 

Example 1: Testing web applications 

Testing web applications often requires checking compatibility across various configurations and browsers. Here’s how virtual machines can facilitate this process: 

Scenario: You’re developing a web application that needs to be compatible with different browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, as well as various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. 

1. Create VMs for each configuration

Using a hypervisor like Parallels Desktop, create separate VMs for each browser and operating system combination you need to test. For example, you might create VMs for Chrome on Windows, Firefox on macOS, and Safari on Linux. 

2. Install the required browsers

Install the specific browser version you want to test within each VM. Ensure that you use the browser version your target users will likely use. 

3. Isolate testing environments

You create isolated testing environments by running each browser in its own VM. This isolation prevents conflicts between browser settings, extensions, or plugins that could affect the test results. 

4. Take snapshots for testing  

Take snapshots of each VM to capture its initial state prior to running tests. As you perform tests, take additional snapshots at critical stages to facilitate rollback if needed. 

5. Conduct testing 

Run your tests on each VM, performing tasks such as navigating the website, filling out forms, and testing JavaScript functionality. Testing frameworks like Selenium can automate or manually perform tests to ensure compatibility. 

6. Analyze results and debug 

After testing, analyze the results to identify any issues or inconsistencies across different browsers or operating systems. If problems arise, use your snapshots to revert VMs to a known good state for further investigation and debugging. 

7. Report and iterate

Document any issues found during testing and report them to the development team for resolution. Iterate on the testing process as needed, adjusting VM configurations or testing methodologies to improve coverage and reliability. 

Example 2: Testing cross-platform applications 

Testing mobile applications requires validation across various devices, platforms, and screen sizes. Here’s how virtual machines can facilitate mobile app testing: 

Scenario: Imagine you’re developing an application that needs to run smoothly on iOS and Android devices with different screen resolutions and device models. 

1. Create VMs for each device/OS combination 

Using tools like Android Emulator for Android or Xcode Simulator for iOS, create separate VMs for each device and operating system combination you need to test. For example, you might create VMs for iPhone X running iOS 14 and Google Pixel 4 running Android 11. 

It would look something like this: 

Create VMs for each OS Combination: Using the development tools for each of the operating systems, create separate VMs to allow running the applications and debugging them. 

2. Install the required software 

Install the necessary software components, such as the mobile operating system, development tools, and the cross-platform app, within each VM. Ensure that you use the same app version that end users will get. 

3. Simulate device environment 

You simulate real-world device environments by running each device in its own VM. This simulation allows you to test the app’s behavior on different screen sizes, resolutions, and hardware configurations. 

4. Take snapshots for testing

Before running tests, take snapshots of each VM to capture its initial state. As you perform tests, take additional snapshots at critical stages to facilitate rollback if needed. 

5. Conduct testing  

Perform a variety of tests on each VM, including functional, usability, and performance testing. Use emulators to simulate user interactions such as tapping, swiping, and rotating the device. 

6. Analyze results and debug

Analyze the test results to identify any issues or inconsistencies across different devices or operating systems. If problems arise, use the snapshots to revert VMs to a known good state for further investigation and debugging. 

7. Report and iterate 

Document any issues found during testing and report them to the development team for resolution. Iterate on the testing process as needed, adjusting VM configurations or testing methodologies to improve coverage and reliability. 

Example 3: Testing database applications 

Testing database applications involves validating data integrity, performance, and scalability across different database systems and configurations. Here’s how virtual machines can support this type of testing: 

Scenario: Consider you’re developing a database application that needs to support multiple database management systems (DBMS), such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Microsoft SQL Server, across different operating systems. 

1. Create VMs for each DBMS 

Using a hypervisor, create separate VMs for each DBMS and operating system combination you need to test. For example, you might create VMs for MySQL on Ubuntu, PostgreSQL on CentOS, and SQL Server on Windows Server. 

2. Install the required database software

Within each VM, install the specific DBMS version you want to test and any additional tools or utilities required. Ensure you use the same database version and configurations as your production environment. 

3. Configure test datasets 

Populate each database with test data representing various use cases and scenarios. This example data allows you to evaluate data manipulation, querying performance, and transactional integrity. 

4. Take snapshots for testing  

Take snapshots of each VM to capture the initial state before running tests. As you perform tests, take additional snapshots at critical stages to facilitate rollback if needed. 

5. Conduct testing 

Perform a range of tests on each VM, including functional testing, performance testing, and scalability testing. Execute SQL queries, analyze query execution plans, and monitor database performance metrics. 

6. Analyze results and debug  

Analyze the test results to identify issues or performance bottlenecks across different DBMS or configurations. If problems arise, use the snapshots to revert VMs to a known good state for further investigation and debugging. 

7. Report and iterate

Document any issues found during testing and report them to the development team for resolution. Iterate on the testing process as needed, adjusting VM configurations or testing methodologies to improve coverage and reliability. 

See how testing on virtual machines can improve your organization’s processes 

In conclusion, virtual machines provide a reproducible and isolated environment for testing software, making it easier to test different configurations without affecting the host operating system.  

By following best practices such as creating reproducible testing environments, utilizing snapshots for testing scenarios, and optimizing VM configurations, organizations can streamline their testing processes, improve test coverage, and continuously improve software quality and reliability. 

Ready to start testing? Sign up for a free 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop to see how it can help improve your testing workflow.  

The post Leveraging virtual machines for efficient and effective software testing appeared first on Parallels Blog.

The primary purpose of zipping files is to make them smaller, sending them via email or other file transfer methods faster and easier.  

By compressing the data, zip files save bandwidth and shorten download and upload times. 

Imagine the difference in size if you mail a box of books that are all jumbled versus a well-organized box where each book is stacked carefully and fitted to the books next to it.  

The books don’t lose pages or physically get smaller, but organizing them means they’ll fit in a smaller box.   

However, once a file has been zipped, it must be unzipped to see the contents. While that sounds complicated, it’s a simple process.  

Switch seamlessly between Mac and Windows with Parallels Desktop. Try it free for 14 days.   

How to unzip files on Mac with Parallels Desktop 

Unzipping files is a skill every modern internet user needs to master.  

Whether you’re sharing photos from a recent trip with friends or downloading anti-virus software, zipped files are part of everyday internet life.  

Luckily, unzipping files on a Mac is relatively simple:  

1. Double-click on the zip file folder 

When a zipped file arrives in your inbox or download folder, double-click the file.  

2. The file will automatically decompress   

The unzipped file will appear in the same folder where the zipped version was stored. You can choose to keep or delete the zipped version to save space.   

3. Click to view your files   

Once the files have been unzipped on your Mac, you can view and read each file as usual. If you need to rezip the file, right-click the folder and choose “Compress <folder name>” from the  

pop-up menu.  

Compressing and Uncompressing Files on a Mac 

While you might tend to think of the terms “zip” and “unzip” when you need to make files smaller, macOS uses the term “Compress”.  

If you have a Parallels Desktop Pro subscription, you have access to Parallels Toolbox, which offers the Archive and Unarchive tools for compressing and uncompressing files.  

FAQ: Having trouble unzipping files on a Mac? 

Zipping and unzipping files on a Mac is a relatively simple process once you get the hang of it. If you run into issues or have additional questions, these frequently asked questions may help.   

Does Mac automatically unzip files?  

No, your Mac will not automatically unzip files — unless you are running Safari. If you click on a zipped file in the Safari browser, the file is downloaded, and you’ll find it uncompressed in the download folder.  

If you are running other browsers (e.g., Chrome or Firefox), you must double-click the file to unzip a zip file. Select Preferences > General > then unselect the Open “safe” files after downloading option.   

Why can’t I unzip a file on my Mac? 

There can be several reasons why a file won’t unzip on your Mac. The most common cause is a lack of space on your computer, which can be fixed by using Finder to locate and delete large, old, and unused files from your computer.  

Another common issue is corrupted files. Try re-downloading the file and unzipping it again. If the issue persists, contact the sender and request a new file.  

Ensure your OS is the latest version (if not, make any necessary updates) and verify your permission to unzip files, especially if you’re using a shared or work device.  

Finally, make sure the zipped file does not require a password. Zipped files that are password protected will not unzip without the correct password.  

How do I unzip a corrupted zip file on a Mac? 

In most cases, you cannot unzip a corrupted file on a Mac. However, there are a few troubleshooting steps that may help:  

• Try re-downloading the file. Sometimes, the file is corrupted during the download process.  
• Ask the sender to rezip and resend the file. If corruption occurred during the zipping process, this may resolve the issue.  
• Use a program like WinZip, which may allow you to extract some of the files.   

Unzip Mac files with ease!  

Learning how to unzip files is essential for accessing a wide range of digital content, from software downloads to large documents. The straightforward steps we shared will ensure you can unzip files in seconds.  

Switch seamlessly between Mac and Windows with Parallels Desktop. Try it free for 14 days.   

The post How to unzip files on a Mac quickly appeared first on Parallels Blog.

This update addresses various critical issues reported by our customers and introduces quality improvements to some of the frequently used functionalities. See the full list of changes in this KB article.  

Want to experience Parallels Desktop for Mac for yourself? Get a 14-day free trial now. 

Use Apple ID with security keys 

By listening to our users, we learned that some of our users have an extra protection layer enabled for their Apple ID — hardware security keys.  

“A security key is a small external device that looks like a thumb drive or tag, which can be used for verification when signing in with your Apple ID using two-factor authentication.”  says Apple’s support article.  

Those users couldn’t sign into their Parallels accounts in Parallels Desktop UI using the “Sign in with Apple” option — a very convenient way to get into a Parallels account.  

While investigating this situation, our engineers identified that we need to use another method from the Authentication Services macOS framework to support Apple IDs with security keys.  

19.2.0 uses this new method and allows users with security keys configured for their Apple ID to sign into their Parallels accounts! We are eager to get feedback from our users about how it works for them. 

Clone a virtual machine instantaneously 

A growing number of software developers, testers, and IT professionals around the world rely on Parallels Desktop as an integral part of their workflow.  

In many scenarios, users need to clone a virtual machine from a golden image or a template. It used to take noticeable time with a linear dependency on the size of the virtual machine. 

With the new approach using APFS capabilities, cloning a virtual machine becomes incredibly fast or almost instantaneous instead of taking 10-30 seconds or even more depending on the VM size.  

Technically speaking, the time it takes to clone a virtual machine residing on an APFS partition using the new approach doesn’t depend on the size of the virtual machine. 

Running a virtual machine from an external drive is improved 

With fast external SSD drives, running a VM that is stored on those drives provides nearly the same level of performance and user experience as if it were located within a Mac, plus it frees up Mac storage. With that being said, some of our customers have their Windows machines stored on external disks.  

The macOS Sonoma 14 operating system brought changes to exFAT and MS-DOS file systems, and “these file systems are now provided by services running in user-space instead of by kernel extensions”, as stated in the macOS Sonoma release notes.  

Those changes, combined with our virtual disk implementation, resulted in significant stability issues with running Windows VMs from an external exFAT-formatted drive. In some situations, Windows used to fail with BSOD and won’t boot again.  

In this release, we are excited to announce stability improvements for running virtual machines from external drives with an ex-FAT file system by tuning our virtual disk implementation to accommodate changes in the latest macOS version. 

Improve CI/CD workflows with Terraform and REST API 

The Parallels team is dedicated to continuously investing in better ways to help developers and DevOps teams streamline their workflows and automate their processes.  

Accordingly, I am excited to announce our latest effort in this regard – the launch of two new open-source projects that provide the tools needed for seamless automation within the world of CI/CD.  

REST API wrapper 

The first project is a REST API wrapper around our already powerful command-line client. This wrapper enables remote management of a Parallels Desktop instance, allowing you to create, clone, start, stop virtual machines and more. It comes with built-in security and RBAC controls to ensure everything is secure.  

Parallels Desktop Terraform provider  

When combined with the new Parallels Desktop Terraform provider, this project makes it incredibly easy to manage and deploy remote instances for use with CI/CD.  

Terraform is a popular Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tool that enables the management of large and complex infrastructures in a consistent and repeatable manner. The addition of Parallels Desktop provider for Terraform provides companies with the ability to manage their virtualization infrastructure with the same benefits. 

Both projects are open-source and free to use, which means that anyone can improve upon them. Check out these projects at:  

• REST API wrapper: https://github.com/Parallels/pd-api-service  
• Parallels Desktop Terraform provider:  https://github.com/Parallels/terraform-provider-parallels-desktop  

To conclude, we want to thank all our customers who share their feedback about using Parallels Desktop with our team whether it’s in the forum, via the surveys, or through customer support.  

As a team, we continue to stay true to our commitment to provide the best experience, performance, and reliability for running virtual systems on a Mac, be it Windows 11, Linux distros, or macOS itself. Let us know your thoughts and experience with the latest Parallels Desktop 19 update here.

New to Parallels Desktop for Mac? Get a 14-day free trial now. 

The post Parallels Desktop for Mac version 19.2.0 is available! appeared first on Parallels Blog.

I know that blending the beast that is AutoCAD with our cherished Mac computers is a dream come true.  

I am here to dive deep into why Parallels Desktop is the ultimate ally for running the Windows version of AutoCAD on your beloved Mac computer.  

 
With Parallels Desktop, the entire machine is dedicated to running 3D modelling tasks, and you can connect to USB devices and not be reliant on an internet connection.  

And here’s the thing – using Parallels Desktop has changed the game for me. It’s like adding a supercharger to your already sweet ride.  

Thousands of professionals of people use Parallels Desktop for Mac to run AutoCAD, because it is the easiest and most powerful cross-platform solution to run Windows and Mac.  

For those on the fence, here’s why I reckon it’s a game-changer, especially for running AutoCAD’s Windows side on our Macs. 

Ready to jump and see for yourself? Get your free trial of Parallels Desktop now. : o https://www.parallels.com/products/desktop/buy/ 

AutoCAD + Mac = A match made in heaven  

Let’s face it, AutoCAD, Autodesk’s crown jewel has been our trusty sidekick for getting those designs down pat.  

Sure, there’s a Mac version of AutoCAD, but the Windows version has that extra bit of spice we need and are used to.  

That’s where Parallels Desktop shines bright – letting us run that chunk of Windows magic right on our Macs with Apple silicon without missing a step. 

Why deploy AutoCAD on Parallels Desktop?   

1. Synchronized workflow: No more rebooting or juggling two machines. Flick between macOS and AutoCAD without breaking a sweat. 

2. Peak performance: Depending on the project complexity and hardware, AutoCAD runs smoothly on Parallels Desktop. No glitches, just a trouble-free experience that feels native to your Mac. 

3. Inter-OS harmony / best of both worlds: It is incredibly easy to simply drag and drop files, copy-paste content, or share tools between Mac and Windows. This synergy helps amplify productivity allowing us all to work smarter. 

4. Play it your way: Adjust your RAM, CPU, and integration settings to your needs. Give your AutoCAD project the VIP treatment only a Mac with Apple silicon chip can offer. 

The AutoCAD for Windows advantage on Mac  

While AutoCAD on Mac offers an extent of functionalities tailored for macOS, the Windows version has its unique set of perks: 

• A bit extra: Some tools in the Windows version are just a notch above. Take the Tool Palettes – while both versions are solid, the Windows version offers a richer set of default palettes and the ability to create custom tool palettes more intuitively. 

• Tweak it out: The Windows version provides more extensive customization capabilities. This includes the ability to utilize a range of programming languages for automation and personalization. 

• AutoLISP plus more: While both versions support AutoLISP, the Windows version also offers .NET, VBA, and Visual LISP to jazz up routine tasks. Architects can use .NET to develop a custom routine that automates the creation of a specific building component, something they might not achieve as easily on Mac.  

• Plugin playground: An extensive suite of third-party plugins awaits you in the Windows ecosystem. Take, for example, DWG TrueView – it’s a lifesaver for viewing and converting DWG files, but it’s a no-show on the Mac side. Missed tools like this make Parallels and the Windows version feel like finding a rare Pokémon in the wild. 

• Stay in sync: A common scenario is when we have folks on different versions. Parallels Desktop steps in to ensure consistency in project execution and collaboration. Means we’re all speaking the same design language. 

Filling in the blanks with AutoCAD on Mac 

I get that Mac enthusiast love their Macs. But sometimes you want that Windows touch without leaving your Mac comfort zone. That’s the beauty of Parallels Desktop – giving you the best of both worlds. 

To all designers and Mac devotees, using AutoCAD for Windows with Parallels Desktop is like hitting the creative jackpot, an invitation to unparalleled creativity. Dive in, and let your designs resonate with precision, let your work shine with that Mac elegance we all adore. 

Join us on this journey. Your Mac, AutoCAD, and Parallels Desktop – it’s like the ultimate power trio! Download your free trial now! 

The post AutoCAD Mastery: Windows Version + Parallels Desktop on Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

• Implementation Index for Remote Desktop

Previously, Parallels Desktop for Mac achieved recognition for Fastest Implementation in the G2 Fall 2022 Grids for Remote Desktop. The Parallels team is once again delighted to see our solutions featured in G2’s industry-leading product reports and indexes.

Parallels Desktop for Mac recognized for fastest implementation    

Parallels Desktop for Mac earned recognition for fastest implementation in the overall segment in the G2 Implementation Index for Remote Desktop.

For a category to be considered data ready for an Implementation Index report, it requires the following:  `

• Over 150 reviews in the category overall.
• Inclusion of all key players in that category.
• A minimum of six products with over 10 reviews and more than five answers to each of the following questions:
  • How long did it take you to go live?
  • How would you describe the ease of setup?
  • What is your implementation method and/or how did you implement it?
  • What percentage of users adopted the product? 

These indexes empower buyers with valuable insight into what solutions on the market are most likely to meet their unique needs.

G2’s reasons for Parallels recognition

Parallels Desktop for Mac received recognition in this year’s G2 Implementation Index based on several high-value characteristics, most notably how quickly it can be implemented.

On the G2 website, reviewer Aaron P. said, “Parallels is hands down the fastest and most feature-rich virtualization software for the Mac.” Additionally, reviewer Louis L. said that Parallels allows them to “effortlessly switch to a Windows app on my Mac, which greatly increases productivity.”

For inclusion in these reports, a product must have a series of positive reviews on the G2 website. As of this writing, Parallels Desktop for Mac has 46 reviews and a ranking of 4.3 out of five stars.  

G2’s Grids, Indexes, and Report methodologies   

The G2 Indexes measure customer satisfaction and market presence with ratings generated from user-supplied product reviews and market presence data. They apply a unique, patent-pending algorithm to calculate a product’s implementation score.

According to the G2 Research Scoring Methodologies page, “Each input is normalized by category and segment. This means that scores are relative to other products in the category/segment and may change from segment to segment.”  

The methodology for Implementation Indexes encompasses criteria that include the amount of time (in months) required for each product to go live, user adoption percentage, implementation method, and the overall number of reviews received on G2.

The team at Parallels is thrilled that customers recognize the high value we strive to deliver to everyone who uses our solutions.  

Also, G2 recognized Parallels^® RAS for one of the Fastest Implementations and as a Leader and High Performer in the Application Server categories.

Learn more about Parallels Desktop for Mac  

The latest version of Parallels Desktop for Mac, 18.1 fully supports Mac OS Ventura and M1 Ultra chip, allowing Mac Studio users to assign up to 128 GB of RAM to a Windows 11 VM to give the system even more power, among many other improvements. Parallels Desktop for Mac enables users to work (and play!) without interruptions to get more done. 

For more information on this version, check out the Parallels Desktop 18.1 blog post.     

Discover the many benefits of Parallels Desktop for Mac for your organization.  

The post Parallels Desktop for Mac recognized in the Winter 2023 G2 Implementation Index for Remote Desktop appeared first on Parallels Blog.

The latest update also delivers full support for the M1 Ultra chip, allowing Mac Studio users to assign up to 128GB of RAM to a Windows 11 VM to give the system even more power. 

“Knowing that Parallels Desktop plays a critical role in enabling users to run Windows, Linux and macOS on their favorite Mac computers, our team delivers yet another solid update to polish user experience of running Windows apps with macOS Ventura’s Stage Manager, as well as to bring support for CentOS Stream 9 ARM to run on Mac computers with Apple M-series chip,” said Elena Koryakina, Senior Vice President of Engineering at Alludo. “The latest version of Parallels Desktop also simplifies migrating existing employees to a new per-user Business license to enable SSO/SAML authentication.”  

What are the top new features in Parallels Desktop 18 update 1?

Parallels Desktop 18.1 update addresses the overall stability and security issues and includes the following additions and improvements across the Standard, Pro, and Business editions: 

Parallels Desktop for Mac Standard Edition  

• Polished experience on macOS Ventura when using Windows 11 in Coherence mode with Stage Manager (new macOS 13 feature). 

• Improved graphics in Windows 11 for a multitude of OpenGL 3D applications as well as some games, including but not limited to World of Warships, Eve Online, Optuma, ANSYS Workbench 2021, Micromine, NS-1, BobCad-Cam, ACCA Edificius. 

• NEW! Added by popular demand from current Parallels Desktop users, support for CentOS Linux Stream 9 (ARM) on Mac computers with Apple M-series chips. 

Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition   

• NEW! With macOS Ventura, Parallels’ engineering team successfully delivers full M1 Ultra chip support with the ability to assign up to 128GB of RAM to a VM.  

Parallels Desktop for Mac Business Edition  

• Improved! This update simplifies the migration process from the regular per-device license to a new per-user license with SSO/SAML integration. For more details, check out our KB article on Parallels Desktop for Business per-user licensing. 

For more details on the fixes and improvements, visit:  https://kb.parallels.com/en/129060

New to Parallels Desktop? Check out what’s new in the latest version 18 and test it for 14 days for free! 

The post Just Released — Parallels Desktop for Mac 18.1 Update Fully Supports macOS Ventura and M1 Ultra Chip appeared first on Parallels Blog.