So, what exactly is a virtual machine?

Key takeaways

• Virtual machines let one computer act like many. With a VM, you can run Windows on a Mac, test Linux without ditching macOS, or create multiple versions of the same OS, all without extra hardware.
• VMs power flexibility for work, play, and recovery. People use virtual machines for cross-platform compatibility, software development, remote work, disaster recovery, and even gaming.
• Virtual machines save resources and boost sustainability. VMs consolidate multiple systems on a single device, which means lower costs, fewer physical machines, and reduced energy use.
• Windows dominates, but other operating systems shine in niche roles. Windows VMs: Still the global giant, running on ~72% of desktops.
• Parallels Desktop makes virtualization simple. Tools like Parallels Desktop bring Windows or Linux to your Mac in a few clicks.

How does a virtual machine work?

A VM is basically a computer inside your computer. It has its own “fake” CPU, memory, storage, and apps, just like the real deal.

Here’s the magic: a hypervisor (that’s the virtualization software) manages it all, keeping your VM separate from your actual hardware. So yes, you could be running macOS on your laptop while a virtual Windows machine hums along in its own little bubble.

Why would anyone use a virtual machine?

Glad you asked. VMs are low-key the unsung heroes of modern tech life. Here’s what they’re good for:

• Cross-platform freedom: Run Windows apps on a Mac without buying another computer.
• Developing and testing: Build apps in isolated environments so nothing crashes your real setup.
• Work-from-anywhere: Create flexible virtual desktops for remote teams.
• Gaming hacks: Play PC-only games on your Mac (yes, really).
• Disaster recovery: If something goes wrong, you can restore a VM faster than replacing hardware.

The perks of using a virtual machine

So why should you care about VMs? Here’s the highlight reel:

• Save resources: One machine, multiple systems.
• Scale easily: Need more computing power? Just add it virtually.
• Keep old apps alive: Run outdated programs on new hardware.
• Stay consistent: Developers can test across platforms without a million laptops.
• Recover fast: Virtual machines make backup and recovery a breeze.
• Go greener: Less hardware = less energy + lower costs.

VMs and the cloud: A power couple

Cloud computing wouldn’t really work without virtual machines. Providers use them for everything from SaaS apps to data backup to secure browsing. Instead of renting a whole physical computer in a data center, you’re basically renting a VM that does the job for less.

Gaming and graphics: Yes, VMs can do that too

Mac users, rejoice: VMs make it possible to play Windows-exclusive games without switching devices. Enable 3D acceleration, and your VM can handle DirectX or OpenGL for smoother gameplay.

TL;DR: A virtual machine is the ultimate loophole for gamers who don’t want to commit to a second computer.

The two types of VMs you’ll meet

There are two primary types of virtual machines, system machines and process machines.

1. System VMs – Full-on replicas of a physical computer. Run multiple operating systems on one machine.

   a. Example: Running Windows 11 on your MacBook.

2. Process VMs – Focused on running just one app or process.

   a. Example: The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) that makes apps run across devices.

Examples of VMs and OS breakdown

Windows Virtual Machine

Still the titan in town: about 71% of desktop users run Windows globally, more than three times macOS’s share. Devs and gamers rely on Windows VMs because that’s where most apps and games live, and yes, Steam reports over 95% of its users are on Windows.

Virtual Machine for Windows 11

The new kid on the block finally took over.

As of July 2025, Windows 11 commands 50–52% of the desktop Windows user base, officially surpassing Windows 10. This surge is tied to the Windows 10 end-of-support in October 2025, plus Microsoft nudging people hard to upgrade.

For VM users, that means more apps and features optimized for Windows 11, and it’s a smart bet for modern, forward‑looking workflows.

Virtual Machine for Windows 10

Consistent, familiar, and still widely used: Windows 10 held around 47–49% share just before being eclipsed, and before that, still in the 60%–70% range as recently as late 2024.

If your apps or tools aren’t yet Windows 11-ready, running Windows 10 in a VM is still your safe, reliable fallback, especially since support ends in late 2025.

macOS Virtual Machine

macOS VMs shine in creative and testing workflows though Mac’s desktop share is modest, hovering around 15–16% globally.

In North America, that figure climbs to nearly 25–30%, paving the way for many Mac users to run isolated macOS VMs for app development or compatibility testing.

Linux Virtual Machine

Linux may still feel niche, but it's stealth-growing.

Globally, desktop Linux holds around 4%, while servers and supercomputers lean Linux-heavy (servers at ~77%, supercomputers at 100%).

Use cases? Devs live here, server staging, open-source testing, and high-performance compute environments.

Android Virtual Machine

Android (a Linux-based OS) is a beast outside desktops. It claims ~43% of all devices, dominates mobile with 72%, and rules tablets too. So if you’re mobile‑app testing or emulating devices, Android VMs are where all the real action is.

Where Parallels comes in

Parallels makes virtualization way less intimidating:

• Parallels Desktop – Run Windows or Linux on your Mac like it’s no big deal.
• Parallels RAS – For IT teams, deliver apps and desktops securely, anywhere.
• Parallels DaaS – Cloud desktops you can spin up instantly.
• Parallels Secure Workspace – A safe space for data and apps.
• Parallels Browser Isolation – Surf the web without the security stress.

Resources to keep you going

Creating a Windows 11 VM with Parallels Desktop

Get started using the latest Windows OS in a virtual machine on your Mac.

Installing a macOS VM on a Mac with Apple silicon

Download and install a macOS virtual machine on your Mac with Apple silicon in just a few clicks.

Cross-platform software testing and development with VMs

Learn how developers use virtual machines to develop and test applications more efficiently.

Ready to Try It?

Whether you’re trying to play PC games on a Mac, keep your dev environment tidy, or give your IT team more flexibility, Parallels has a solution:

Download your free trial of Parallels Desktop and start running VMs on your Mac today.