How to Run PC Software on a Mac

There are several options for people who want to run PC software on their Macs. If you are a user of Boot Camp, you may have the option of using a PC or the option of using your Mac, but isn't it a hassle to have to reboot to the other partition just to use those few programs you want or need on a PC? Luckily, there is a solution to run your PC programs through your Mac desktop without rebooting.

Let's first start off with what you will need before beginning. You will need a newer Mac desktop or laptop with an Intel Chip in it. As long as you have that, you are set to go.

The first program you want to check out to run PC software on a Mac is Parallels Desktop. It is available to download for free with a two week trial of the software. Basically the program creates something called a virtual computer that emulates windows software. Once you download that program and give it a try, you have the ability to run and install any PC-only software that you might be itching to utilize.

Setting up Parallels Desktop for Mac is super easy. You can bring all your PC programs, documents, photos, and music to your Mac, then run them all like they were made for just for you and your Mac. It's the best of both worlds on one desktop and without the need to reboot.

Another program you can try to run PC software on a Mac is called Wine Bottler. It was actually recommended to me by an Apple Store employee who balked at me when I told him I intended to buy a fresh copy of Windows 7 to use with Boot Camp. This software is totally 100% free and provided to you by the open source community. This means that bugs are still being worked out and the product is in Beta...but you can help improve it by reporting any bugs you find and it's the price of free.