The Citrix user’s guide to Parallels RAS

Switching software isn’t always as easy as flipping a switch.

As much as a new solution can benefit the business, studies have shown that organizations’ biggest challenge when changing software is getting employee buy-in.

Learning new technology can take months, and even then, employees may not use it if they think it complicates their jobs.

There’s good news, though.

User adoption starts with understanding.

If you’re moving to Parallels RAS from Citrix, we’re here to help. Our Citrix migration tool has you covered for the technical side of things, and for your own understanding, here’s a map of familiar terminology and concepts to help you quickly get the lay of the land—during setup and beyond.

Looking for first-hand insights to help with a software shift? Get your free trial to explore how Parallels RAS makes remote work simple through virtual application and desktop delivery.

Citrix vs. Parallels RAS: A quick comparison guide

Switching from Citrix to Parallels RAS? Don’t worry—we’ve translated the key concepts for you. Here’s a clear side-by-side look at how familiar Citrix terms map to Parallels RAS components:

Citrix term	Parallels RAS equivalent	Key difference
Site	Site	Both organize deployments, but the terminology is different. See below.
Machine Catalog	Host Pools	Both group virtual machines (VMs) and can auto-scale.
Delivery Group	Publishing	Citrix assigns VMs to users with Delivery Groups. Parallels RAS assigns apps, desktops, and resources through flexible filtering rules.
Delivery Controller	Connection Broker	Both manage the use of connections to the services they need. Parallels RAS eliminates the need for SQL databases.
Virtual Delivery Agent (VDA)	RAS Agents	Parallels RAS installs different agents based on the role: RD Session Host Agents, Remote PC Agents, and Guest Agents.
PVS/MCS (Image Management)	Parallels RAS Image Management	Parallels RAS simplifies provisioning using a system similar to MCS with templates and versioning—without PVS complexity.
NetScaler Gateway	Secure Gateway	Both provide secure SSL/TLS access. Parallels RAS includes it as a standard component that can easily scale.
StoreFront	Secure Gateway Web Access	Parallels RAS combines secure access and web portal functionality into one simple setup.
HDX (ICA Protocol)	Microsoft RDP + Virtual Channels	Parallels RAS enhances Microsoft RDP and has full support for Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD).
Workspace App	Parallels Client	Both provide multi-device access. Parallels RAS supports multiple device platforms, including laptops, phones, tablets, and thin clients, running most major operating systems like macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, Apple iOS, and iPadOS. It also supports secure web access via HTML5 to any compatible device.
Web Studio, Citrix Studio, Director	RAS Console	Parallels RAS consolidates everything into one unified management console. This simplifies administration and control.
Citrix Profile Management	FSLogix Profile Integration	Parallels RAS natively integrates with FSLogix, which is fully controlled via the RAS Console at no additional cost.

Why make the switch?

Simplified architecture: Fewer moving parts, no SQL dependency, unified console.

Lower total cost of ownership (TCO): Less infrastructure complexity means reduced licensing, hardware, and administrative overhead.

Flexible access: Native support for hybrid deployments, multi-OS clients, and modern remote work models.

Smooth migration: Built-in Citrix migration tool helps you map existing configurations directly into Parallels RAS.

Ready to experience Parallels RAS?

Start your free 30-day trial and see how simple, secure, and cost-effective remote work can be.