What’s New in Parallels RAS 22

What’s New in Parallels RAS 22

Parallels RAS 22 gives IT more control over the devices, users, and sessions connecting to corporate resources, while making everyday access simpler for users.

This release introduces client device posture checks, File Access, and session recording and playback. It also extends Parallels RAS support for hybrid environments with Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Hybrid, alongside updates to security, application delivery, monitoring, and the end-user experience.

Key highlights include:

  • Client device posture checks assess device security before access.
  • File Access lets users browse and open files from existing file shares through the RAS User Portal.
  • Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Hybrid extends RAS management to AVD hosts running on on-premises infrastructure.
  • Session recording and playback gives IT a record of user activity for auditing, investigations, and compliance use cases.

Discover what's new in Parallels RAS 22.
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Highlights from Parallels RAS 22: Stronger secure access, more flexibility across hybrid environments, a more natural user experience, and simpler operations

Security, access, and identity

  • Client device posture checks

    • Assess the security status of devices connecting to Parallels RAS, including antivirus status and OS or browser versions.

  • Session recording and playback (experimental)

    • Record user sessions and play them back when activity needs to be reviewed. Recordings can support audits, incident investigations, contractor governance, and compliance requirements.

  • SAML as a second factor (nFactor)

    • Use SAML as an additional option for multifactor authentication, giving organizations more flexibility in how identity is verified during sign-in.

  • Extended public IP access control

    • Apply access policies and multifactor authentication based on the public IP address a connection originates from. This gives admins more control over how authentication requirements are applied to connections coming from different locations.

  • Gateway and broker API rate limiting

    • Protect gateways and brokers against high volumes of connection attempts, helping maintain resilience of the RAS environment.

  • Trusted farm verification

    • Add trust verification between servers in a RAS deployment to help prevent untrusted systems from joining the environment.

  • Updated SAML design

    • Strengthen the underlying SAML authentication implementation.

  • Session tunneling for Linux and iOS/iPadOS

    • Enables Linux and iOS/iPadOS clients to launch tunneled sessions when used with the Connection Broker API.

Experience and session fidelity

  • True Coherence mode for Mac

    • Published remote applications behave more like locally installed Mac apps, with a more native Dock experience and live application previews.

  • Clipboard image transparency on Mac

    • Transparency is preserved when images are copied between a RAS session and macOS, so transparent areas don’t pick up an unwanted background when pasted.

  • Taskbar window preview

    • Users can preview a published application's window from the taskbar without switching to the application first.

  • Unified keyboard layout sync

    • A keyboard layout change on the local device is carried into the remote session automatically. This is particularly useful for people who regularly switch languages or input methods.

  • Time zone redirection

    • Time zone redirection reflects the user's local time zone without requiring the RDSH role or additional server configuration.

  • Redirected drive write caching configuration

    • Admins can manage redirected-drive write caching and related file-copy performance settings directly from the RAS interface.

  • Password expiration notification improvements

    • Clearer notifications give users better visibility when their password is approaching expiration.

Manageability and operations

  • MSIX launch parameters

    • Admins have more control over how delivered MSIX applications launch, with support for launch parameters for MSIX applications.

  • Cookie-free User Portal load balancing

    • Deploying the RAS User Portal behind third-party load balancers no longer requires the previous cookie-based configuration.

  • Agent updates in Drain Mode

    • RAS agents can be updated while a host is in Drain Mode, removing the need to create a separate maintenance step after taking the host out of service.

  • Uptime visibility

    • Host uptime is now visible directly in RAS, giving admins another useful data point when monitoring their environments. This applies to RDSH, AVD, VDI, Secure Gateway, Connection Broker, Enrollment Server, and Remote PC hosts.

  • Auto-scaler workload visibility

    • A visual indication of host-pool workload helps admins see how much capacity is being used and make informed scaling decisions.

  • Grafana dashboard configuration

    • Organizations can connect RAS monitoring to the Grafana instance they already use rather than maintaining a separate monitoring destination.

  • Cost Insights certificate management

    • Custom certificates can be used with Cost Insights, allowing the service to fit into existing certificate-management requirements.

  • OS and SQL Server support refresh

    • RAS 22 updates support for current operating systems and SQL Server versions. See the technical requirements for the complete list of supported versions.

Platform flexibility

  • Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) Hybrid support

    • AVD Hybrid brings AVD hosts running on an organization's on-premises infrastructure under Parallels RAS management, alongside Azure-hosted resources. The AVD control plane remains in Azure, while organizations can keep AVD hosts and data on their own infrastructure. This gives IT more choice over where AVD hosts and data reside while providing a more consistent way to manage Azure and on-premises AVD environments through Parallels RAS.

  • VMware vSphere 9

    • RAS 22 adds support for VMware vSphere 9, including ESXi and vCenter. See the Parallels RAS technical requirements for supported configurations.

  • VDI Platform Scaling

    • Speeds up large-scale provisioning with configurable parallel cloning, faster list navigation, and Hyper-V support for TPM-enabled Windows 11 templates.

File Access

  • Users can browse and open files from existing file shares in a new Files area in the RAS User Portal, alongside their applications and favorites.

    • Files open in the appropriate published application. For IT, the feature builds on existing file-sharing infrastructure rather than requiring a separate file-access solution. Users get one place to reach the applications, desktops, and files made available to them.

For a complete list of changes, support platforms, and technical details, the latest Parallels RAS release notes.

Ready to upgrade? Visit My Parallels to get started.

Previous releases of Parallels RAS

Highlights from Parallels RAS 21.2: Broader platform flexibility, smoother user experience, and stronger security

Platform features

  • Support for Nutanix Prism Central

    Improves multi-cluster and hybrid/multi-cloud compatibility with the latest Nutanix platform architecture and future lifecycle changes. 

  • Introducing the Custom Provider Framework

    Enables organizations to integrate additional hypervisors and virtualization platforms more easily into Parallels RAS, expanding infrastructure flexibility while continuing to manage application and desktop delivery from a centralized platform.

  • Support for Scale Computing HC3 9.6

    Adds support for Scale Computing HC3 9.6 and removes support for HC3 9.2, helping organizations stay aligned with current platform versions and supported environments.

  • Trusted Launch support for Azure and Azure Virtual Desktop

    Supports Trusted Launch VM security features for Azure and Azure Virtual Desktop environments, including Secure Boot and virtual TPM support to help strengthen workload protection.

  • Support for Azure Availability Zones

    Allows administrators to select Azure Availability Zones for Azure and Azure Virtual Desktop session hosts to optimize workload placement, performance, and deployment architecture.

Admin experience features

  • Flexible VM sizing and Active Directory OU assignment for host pools

    Allows administrators to configure VM sizing and Active Directory organizational unit placement at the host pool level, reducing template sprawl and simplifying large-scale session host deployments.

  • Configurable thresholds for failed Secure Gateway session notifications

    Enables administrators to define alert thresholds for failed Secure Gateway sessions, reducing unnecessary notifications and making monitoring workflows easier to manage.

  • Improved visibility for sessions in a “Down” state

    Provides clearer reporting for sessions detected in a “Down” state, helping administrators identify, troubleshoot, and manage unresponsive sessions more effectively.

  • Enhanced visibility and control for quarantined printers

    Improves visibility and management of quarantined printers, helping administrators troubleshoot redirected printing issues and reduce disruptions caused by unstable drivers.

  • Cost Insights enhancements

    Improves Cost Insights for Azure Virtual Desktop with better error handling, customizable reporting time ranges, and dashboard refinements for more reliable cost analysis and visibility.

User experience features

  • Local file access for RAS Web Client

    Enables users to upload and download files between local devices and remote applications or desktops directly through the browser, improving productivity for browser-based workspaces and Chromebook deployments.

  • Simultaneous multi-file transfer for the Web Client

    Allows users to upload multiple files in a single workflow, reducing repetitive prompts and streamlining file transfer in browser-based sessions.

  • Passthrough authentication support for IGEL OS12

    Adds passthrough authentication on IGEL OS12 thin clients, allowing users on domain-joined devices to access published resources without re-entering credentials.

  • Extended USB device redirection for Linux Client and IGEL OS12

    Expands USB filtering and redirection support to now include additional device classes such as HID peripherals and signature pads, improving compatibility with specialized hardware.

  • Web + Credentials authentication support across platforms

    Adds Web + Credentials authentication for macOS, Linux, IGEL OS12, Android, and iOS clients, combining modern SAML-based authentication with traditional Active Directory session logins.

  • Enhanced clipboard redirection for macOS Client

    Improves clipboard redirection for macOS to now support richer content formats such as images, formatted text, and embedded links.

  • macOS Command key support in User Portal

    Enables familiar macOS keyboard shortcuts such as Command+C, Command+V, Command+A, and Command+X in the browser-based User Portal.

  • Improved application launch feedback

    Provides clearer launch indicators in Windows and Web clients so users can see when a remote application is still opening, reducing user confusion and duplicate launches.

  • Improved file save performance for redirected drives

    Introduces experimental file-content caching to improve save performance when users work with redirected drives in remote desktop sessions.

Security features

  • Enhanced API security for User Portal integrations

    Strengthens authentication handling between external systems and the RAS User Portal or Web Client, reducing exposure of sensitive credentials and reusable session data.

  • Automatic logout from Client while retaining active sessions

    Allows administrators to sign users out of the Client or User Portal independently of active remote sessions, improving security for shared-device and kiosk-style environments.

  • Enhanced Gateway access control and API restrictions

    Gives administrators more granular control over Gateway communication paths, RAS services, APIs, session launches, and device-level access policies.

  • Self-service password reset URL caching

    Retains the most recently used password reset URL for external identity providers, helping users recover access more easily when authentication details are unavailable.

  • Updated smart card redirection naming

    Updates smart card redirection terminology to explicitly include Windows Hello for Business support, improving clarity for modern Microsoft authentication configurations.

User Portal and Client Updates

  • Display Name support in User Portal

    Shows the user’s Display Name instead of the User Principal Name in the profile section, creating a cleaner and more recognizable identity experience.

  • Updated printer driver options for macOS Client

    Modernizes macOS Client printer driver options by removing legacy Windows Server choices and simplifying printer configuration.

For a complete list of updates and technical details, please review the latest release notes.

Ready to upgrade? Visit My Parallels to get started.

Parallels RAS 20.1 and 20.2 updates

Parallels RAS 20.1 and 20.2 updates introduce further capabilities, features, and fixes designed to enhance user and admin experiences.

Key Features

  • Increased datastore flexibility options for VMware VM deployments

    VMware customers can now choose different datastores for their VM clones to provide high availability at the datastore level. A single template can be replicated across datastores to deliver automated and streamlined administration.

  • Windows Server 2025 support

    All infrastructure components in Parallels RAS are now supported for Windows Server 2025. This includes the session hosts and management roles. Support for Microsoft Hyper-V 2025 coming very soon.

  • Extended seamless accessibility with published applications

    The new Z-order configuration feature is particularly useful for those who work with both local and remote applications, as it enables the published applications to layer together with local applications, rather than occupy a single layer. This offers a more seamless and focused user experience, allowing users to concentrate on the task at hand without unnecessary distractions.

  • Repair option to redeploy agents in Azure Virtual Desktop

    Ensure fast recovery from Azure Virtual Desktop connectivity issues caused by broken Azure Virtual Desktop agents. Administrators can centrally repair unavailable hosts and automatically redeploy Azure Virtual Desktop agents, streamlining the process and enhancing central management for IT teams.

  • Schedule updates for Azure Virtual Desktop agents

    Now IT admins can create two maintenance windows for the Azure Virtual Desktop agent, so that updates don’t happen during peak business times, minimizing the risk of disruption. Learn more about upgrading Azure Virtual Desktop agents.

  • Advanced webcam & camera capture playback on Parallels Client for Linux

    This update introduces advanced camera redirection for video and image capture, along with enhanced audio playback capabilities. These improvements deliver a significantly better user experience during remote video sessions while also reducing USB-related traffic associated with USB redirection.

  • Smooth camera playback for Android and iOS/iPadOS

    The new camera redirection feature enables users to leverage their mobile device cameras during Parallels RAS remote sessions. This provides enhanced flexibility for professionals who rely on camera functionality in their daily workflows.

    For instance, in warehouse management software, this feature allows businesses to streamline and optimize stocking operations by utilizing mobile devices and their cameras to capture stock references directly into the software’s database.

  • Increased flexibility in MFA choice

    IT Admins are no longer limited to five automations with RADIUS. When the number of automations exceeds five, a dropdown menu will automatically appear, streamlining the selection process and enhancing usability.

  • Fast and effective Identity Provider integration

    IT administrators can now seamlessly integrate third-party identity providers (e.g., Azure, Okta, Ping) with Parallels RAS without the need for an RAS Enrollment Server or Certificate Authority.

    This capability will be extended to the User Portal to launch resources using Windows Client. So now this light weight SSO, which leverages SAML for presenting published applications and authenticating user credentials upon launching a published item, can be done in the native and web client.

  • Smooth, dynamic display resizing for Parallels Client for Web

    This enables the Parallels Client for Web session resolutions to be resized dynamically at runtime in a similar way to the installed client. This feature enhances usability and improves the user experience.

  • Latest support for Nutanix AHV (AOS) 6.10 LTS

    IT admins can now deploy Parallels RAS on Nutanix AHV (AOS) 6.10 LTS, gaining access to all the features from versions 6.6 through 6.81. This support is in addition to the previous Nutanix AHV (AOS) 6.5 Long Term Service release. It gives IT admins even more choice when deploying with Nutanix.

For a full list of capabilities, please see release notes.

Ready to upgrade? Visit My Parallels.

Parallels RAS 20 update

Parallels RAS 20 introduces a range of powerful new capabilities designed to enhance flexibility, security, and overall user and admin experiences.

Discover what's new in RAS 20 - watch the video

The update also includes key fixes and support improvements. Some of the most exciting enhancements include:

Key Updates

  • Local App Launch

    Users can seamlessly launch local applications side-by-side with remote published applications from the same Parallels Client workspace, reducing connection delays and creating a unified end-user experience for both local and remote applications.

    This update reduces users’ context switching, as both local and remote apps are accessed through the Parallels Client. It enables admins to manage local application shortcuts on the desktop or in the Start Menu through the Management Console in the same way they do with remote apps and desktops.

  • AWS Availability Zones support

    Customers can now deploy hosts (clones) from the same RAS template image and host pool across different Availability Zones in the same region in AWS, enhancing High Availability.

  • Manage application delivery in Windows 365 cloud PCs

    IT admins can now deliver applications that are not locally installed on the Cloud PC for the “best of both worlds”. This improvement is ideal for Cloud PC users when Windows 365 is used as the primary desktop and business applications that are not locally installed on Cloud PC are delivered using Parallels RAS.

    It also unblocks customers who cannot move to Cloud PC because their backend resides on-premises and accelerates user onboarding to Cloud PCs, since apps are now “following” the user.

    Applications hosted in Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) or based on MSIX app attach are seamlessly and dynamically delivered through dedicated Parallels RAS. The introductory video illustrates the end-user experience using Cloud PC and Parallels.

  • Cost dashboard UI (coming soon!)

    Provides IT administrators with real-time insights into current and future cost utilization when using Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) in both cloud and hybrid environments.

Other updates

Flexibility
  • Additional Azure Marketplace offering

    In addition to Bring Your Own License (BYOL) and Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) offers, customers can now also consume a pre-paid Parallels Subscription directly from the Azure Marketplace.

    This allows customers to purchase Parallels RAS licenses using their Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment (MACC) and Parallels partners to create private offers for their customers.

    This approach enhances ease of deployment. It aligns with modern cloud-based purchasing strategies, offering a more convenient and cost-effective solution for managing remote access and virtualization needs.

Security and system updates
  • Easily distinguish between farms in My Account

    This enhancement will help administrators distinguish between farms based on their assigned IP addresses, facilitating better support and security management.

  • Updated system requirements

    The minimum system requirements have been updated to ensure secure and optimized environment for our customers. Get the current system requirements.

  • New operating system support

    Parallels Client for Android now supports Android 15, Parallels Client for macOS now supports macOS 15 (macOS Sequoia), and Parallels Client for iOS/iPadOS now supports iOS/iPadOS 18.

Admin improvements
  • New Column “last used secure gateway”

    See the last used Secure Gateway in a new column. This change allows an administrator to filter all users of a specific secure gateway, aiding in network management and troubleshooting.

The user experience
  • High DPI support in Parallels Client for Web

    The user experience is improved by support for higher resolution or high DPI (dots per inch) displays, resulting in enhanced picture clarity and quality crispness when interacting with the remote apps and desktops via the Web Client (HTML5).

  • New French and Belgian keyboard layouts

    Enjoy support for French and Belgian keyboard layouts in the Parallels Web client, improving the user experience. These layouts can also be controlled centrally via Parallels RAS policies.

  • Resume sessions across multiple devices

    This update allows applications to automatically launch when a user logs into their Parallels RAS session, regardless of the device they are accessed from. Users can begin working immediately upon logging in without needing to manually restart applications they were previously using.

These updates collectively enhance the performance, security, flexibility, and overall user experience of Parallels RAS, aligning it with the latest cloud and virtualization trends.

For a full list of features, refer to the Parallels RAS 20 release notes.

Parallels RAS 19.4 update

Further enhancements, capabilities, and fixes have been introduced with the Parallels RAS 19.4 updates. These features prioritize in areas of environment flexibility, security, and user experiences, as well as essential bug fixes and support updates.

Some of the most exciting enhancements in the latest updates include:

Flexibility

  • Light-weight integration with Identity Providers
    IT administrators can now seamlessly integrate third-party identity providers (e.g., Azure, Okta, Ping) with Parallels RAS. This allows end users to sign in and access Parallels RAS resources, such as apps and desktops, without the need for an RAS Enrollment Server or Certificate Authority. As a result, users will be prompted to enter their credentials when launching these resources. This functionality is enabled by a new Parallels RAS feature that leverages SAML for presenting published applications and authenticating user credentials upon launching a published item.
  • Enhanced whitelabeling and customizations
    Businesses wishing to change the background image of the user pool environment can now upload both JPEG or PNGs and se within the administration portal. This can help ensure the same look at feel for its workforce, particularly if there is a migration to Parallels RAS from an existing provider. This feature further enhances the whitelabeling capabilities already established within Parallels RAS and the custom options available for the user portal.

Security

  • Read-only drive redirection
    Read-only drive redirection allows drives to be redirected from client to server but restricts them to read-only access, thereby mitigating data leaks. This feature extends the existing drive redirection capabilities.
  • Granula clipboard restrictions
    Extending today's capabilities, clipboard functionality can now be configured for either bidirectional or unidirectional use. Administrators can specify text-only format, providing greater control and reducing the risk of data leaks. This allows users to retain copy/paste functionality without supporting all formats.

User Experience

  • New Swiss German and Swiss French Keyboard Layouts
    The keyboard layout settings have been updated to include Swiss German and Swiss French options, enhancing the user experience for those familiar with these layouts.
  • Parallels Client Progressive Web Apps (PWA) for Windows Shortcut Key
    The Parallels Admin console now supports configuring Windows apps as PWAs in user sessions running from the ChromeOS web browser. This update provides a more convenient way to deliver and launch key applications through Chrome.
  • Central configuration of Parallels Client with IGEL User Management System (USM)
    New settings now offer IT adminstrators the ability to profile and configure the IGEL Ready Parallels Client. This enhancement allows for more efficient management of Parallels Clients across IGEL OS12 devices.

For a full list of features, refer to the Parallels RAS 19.4 release notes.

Parallels RAS 19.4

Built upon the foundation laid by Parallels® RAS 19.0 and further enhanced with the 19.3 release, the Parallels 19.4 update represents an elegant refinement. This update prioritizes Nutanix AHV support for the latest image management capabilities in Parallels RAS.

Furthermore, it boasts enhancements in provisioning and automation, security, and performance, as well as essential bug fixes and an elevated admin and user experience.

Watch what's new in 19.4

Some of the most exciting enhancements in Parallels RAS 19.4 include:

NEW go-to-market (GTM) opportunity

  • Extended GTM route for partners with Azure Marketplace listing
    Parallels RAS is now listed as a transactional offering in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, in addition to the current bring your own license (BYOL) listing.
    Parallels partners can benefit through private offerings and simplified selling through personalized offerings. It allows for easier access to connect Parallels solutions with businesses and organizations across the globe. Furthermore, Parallels RAS is engineered for swift deployment, seamlessly integrating with Azure Virtual Desktop for automated setup.

Provisioning and Automation

  • Extended image management for Nutanix AHV (AOS)
    Image management features introduced in the Parallels RAS 19.3 release for Microsoft Azure, Azure Virtual Desktop, Hyper-V and VMware vCenter, and ESXi are now compatible with Nutanix AHV. This includes template versioning, enhanced image lifecycle management with tags, and the ability to stagger and schedule template updates. This support expands flexibility by enabling customers to choose their preferred infrastructure.
    Find out more about the latest image management features with our Tech Bytes videos.
  • Support for scale computing SC//HyperCore 9.2
    Parallels RAS 19.4 now supports SC//HyperCore 9.2 as a provider to automate provisioning, scaling, and power management of session host workloads.
  • Agent Auto-Upgrade
    For IT administrators overseeing numerous backend session hosts, Agent Auto-Upgrade streamlines this process by automatically updating agents and session modules without requiring manual intervention. This functionality simplifies upgrades across all environments, whether on-premises, cloud, or a combination of the two.
  • Template versioning improvements
    A few smaller updates enhance template versioning capabilities, including new APIs and new visual representation of the template versions to help optimize the IT administrator experience in version 19.4.

Security

  • Self-service registration for email-based one-time passwords (OTPs)
    Organizations can opt for email-delivered OTPs as a secondary authentication method. Email OTP, a multi-factor authentication option, sends the OTP directly to the user's email address. This feature also supports external email addresses that are not stored in the Active Directory.
  • Extended PCI-DSS compliances with HTTP host header injection
    Further enhancements of PCI-DSS compliance now include an HTTP host header validation at the gateway to mitigate vulnerabilities associated with HTTP host header injection, enhancing the overall security posture of the platform.
  • Configuring certificate authority templates
    Organizations using SAML SSO with our enrollment server can leverage a larger key size in our certificate templates for security purposes. This new feature will enable the Parallels enrollment agent and the Parallels smartcard logon certificate templates to use the 4096-bit key size if the organization requires them.

User experience

  • Multi-monitor support in Parallels Client for web
    End users can now utilize multiple displays with the Parallels Client for Web during published sessions, whether they're working within an application or in a desktop environment.
  • Host pool reporting
    New host pool reporting options track areas in the user sessions, including session disconnects, bandwidth availability, latency, connection quality UX evaluator, log-on duration, and host pools in Transport protocol.
  • SAML SSO capability
    SAML SSO capability is now available when using Parallels RAS + Azure Virtual Desktop under the standard feature set.

Administration experience

  • Customize “Help” options with URL support
    A new custom option under the Help menu within the RAS Console allows the customization of a URL, supporting redirection to local support or any other designated URL.
  • Set management permissions for a dedicated Active Directory group
    Lead administrators, as part of a shared farm, can restrict lower-level administrators' permissions to customize settings only within their respective Active Directory groups.
  • View "License" permission options
    Manage custom administrator view permissions by implementing "license" view-only access in the RAS Console and Web Management Portal. This feature offers flexibility to limit the visibility of specific license information from other administrators.

For a full list of features, refer to the Parallels RAS 19.4 release notes.

Parallels RAS 19.3

Parallels RAS 19.3 introduces new enhancements in areas of administration, security, and user experience, offering further benefits in management and security when deploying and managing at scale.

Key enhancements:

Image management (Template Versioning & Provisioning Updates):

  • Template Versioning
    Now with RAS, IT administrators can create multiple versions of the same RAS template, enabling the validation of new image versions and assign to select host pools in dev/test environment before implementing into production. Additionally, this update offers administrators the ability to swiftly revert to previous versions if required, resulting in lower hardware footprint and management overheads.
  • Version Tags
    Improve image lifecycle management with tags. Assign key identities for different templates like production, pre-production and custom tags (editable names) without extensive manual configuration.
  • Scheduled Template Image Updates
    Reduce workforce disruptions by staggering template updates with RAS. IT administrators can choose to schedule when new template updates are introduced. They can allow users to continue working without disruptions until they next log off, or alternatively, they can force users to log off so that users are using new updated workload VMs.

Continued enrichment of Azure Virtual Desktop Experience:

  • Enhanced Redirection in Azure Virtual Desktop
    RAS continues to build on its redirection capabilities in Azure Virtual Desktop, offering a range of new features that come standard with its latest 19.3 release.
    • Universal Printing: For built-in efficient and effortless printing on locally available printers.
    • URL Redirection: Specify URLs to be opened on the client side, making use of client-side resources.
    • Accelerated File Redirection: Enabled drive cache capability to speed up enumeration of local files and folders from Azure Virtual Desktop resource.
    • RemoteExec: Allows admin to specify to launch an application on the client from the Azure Virtual Desktop resource.
  • FSLogix Office Containers
    Simplify user profile management with the latest Office Container integration by allowing administrations to leverage just Microsoft 365 app data or combine with existing profile containers directly from the RAS management console.

User experience:

  • Modern and unified user experience
    Introducing an upgraded, unified user interface for web and native Parallels Clients, designed with modern aesthetics and familiarity to optimize user workflow. The new design seamlessly blends with native OS elements while maintaining a contemporary look. This minimalist approach enhances productivity and user experience by adapting to individual preferences, like offering both dark and light modes. The Parallels Client for web is available now with the Parallels Client for Windows and macOS made available in the fall Y23. Across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android clients, we have introduced the much-requested "Favourites" feature, enabling users to select and access their preferred applications effortlessly from the resource list.

For a full list of features, refer to the Parallels RAS 19.3 release notes.

Parallels RAS 19.2

Parallels RAS 19.2 focuses on Azure Virtual Desktop integration, making it easier for administrators with little or no knowledge of Azure to maximize the benefits of multi-user Windows 10/11 workloads.

Watch the on-demand webinar.

Key enhancements:

Azure Virtual Desktop

  • HTML5 Web Client
    Access Azure Virtual Desktop resources from Windows, macOS, and Linux devices using any browser.
  • MSIX app attach
    Packaged applications can now be appended to Azure Virtual Desktop workloads.
  • RDP Shortpath
    UDP-based transport between client and session host can now be limited to a specific port range.
  • Storage cost optimization
    As an extension of the auto-scaling and power management cost optimizations, managed disk storage can automatically be downgraded when Azure Virtual Desktop virtual machines are powered off.

Additional enhancements

  • User experience
    Users can granularly select specific monitors for virtual desktops. In addition, pre-created client connections can be designated for shared devices.
  • Microsoft Authenticator
    For Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) authentication, Microsoft Authenticator is now available.
  • Administrative improvements
    Persistent desktop assignments, as well as new PowerShell cmdlets and APIs make administration easier.

Parallels RAS 19.1

Parallels RAS 19.1 is an incremental update that adds new capabilities, supports new technology, and includes performance and security improvements. Highlights include:

  • MSIX app attach enhancements
    Parallels RAS 19.1 extends MSIX app attach application delivery to virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Now MSIX app attach application packages can be assigned to VDI desktops in addition to RD Session Hosts. MSIX app attach lets administrators work more efficiently by dynamically adding, removing, and updating apps without installing the apps on the desktop image or Parallels RAS templates.
  • Support for Nutanix AOS 6.5
    Parallels RAS 19.1 supports the latest Nutanix AOS Long Term Supported (LTS) version for IT organizations that use Nutanix to automate provisioning, scaling, and power management of session host workloads.
  • New policy search
    The new Search capability in the Parallels RAS Management Console makes it faster and easier for administrators to find and configure available policies.
  • New user experience reports
    Monitor, troubleshoot, and enhance user experience with information from new preconfigured reports for Transport Protocol (TCP/UDP), Network Latency, Connection Quality, and Bandwidth Quality. IT administrators can now retrieve historic user session data to reveal areas where user experience can be improved.
  • Parallels Client for Linux now supports Ubuntu 22.04 LTS
    Parallels Client for Linux extends its flexibility and connectivity with support for the latest Ubuntu LTS version, 22.04.
  • New PowerShell cmdlets and REST APIs
    PowerShell and REST APIs allow IT administrators to deploy and manage Parallels RAS using automation. The following list of PowerShell cmdlets and REST APIs are now available and reverse proxy can be used with REST APIs.
    • MSIX app attach: Deploy and configure MSIX app attach for RD Session Hosts and VDI desktops.
    • Tenant Broker: Join Tenant to Tenant Broker and get Tenant Broker status.
    • Logon Hours: Configure logon hour restrictions.

Parallels RAS 19

The release of new Parallels RAS 19 builds on the features and innovation that has earned it a reputation as a top-rated pick for delivering secure access to virtual applications and desktops on any device.

We’ve improved deployment flexibility and security while enhancing the simplicity and usability for administrators and end-users alike. Our goal is to enable enterprises, independent software vendors (ISVs), and managed service providers (MSPs) to be more agile and to extend their service offerings, all from a single management console.

Highlights include:

  • Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a cloud provider
    Parallels RAS 19 extends its list of supported cloud computing providers by integrating with Amazon EC2. Use Parallels RAS templates to deploy and auto scale instances on demand, directly on cloud, or via hybrid environments with a unified administrator and end-user experience.
  • MSIX app attach integration
    Deliver the right application to the right user with Parallels RAS 19 MSIX app attach integration. Discover and import MSIX packages, use built-in version tags to simplify package updates, manage certificates used for package signing, and assign application packages to session hosts for dynamic application delivery.
  • Let's Encrypt certificate management
    Parallels RAS 19 simplifies secure user access by integrating out-of-the-box SSL certificate creation with Let’s Encrypt—an award-winning global Certificate Authority (CA) that provides free SSL and TLS certificates. Parallels RAS 19 automates the renewal process and makes certificate management easy—you can issue, renew, and revoke certificates directly from the Parallels RAS Console.
  • Specific URL redirection
    In addition to existing URL and mail redirection capabilities, Parallels RAS 19 now includes the ability to redirect specific URLs. Redirect from server to client to optimize end user device resource usage. For example, redirect to a local version of unified communication tools, such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom, to optimize audio and video delivery for calls and meetings.
  • Multiple Multi-factor authentication (MFA) providers
    Administrators can now use multiple MFAs. No need to deploy different Parallels RAS environments—reuse the same resources and streamline the IT management.
  • Parallels Client for Windows on ARM64
    The Parallels Client for Windows has been rebuilt and optimized to run natively on machines that use ARM64 processors, providing users of these lightweight systems with efficient access to their x86 and 64-bit applications.
  • Expression-based filtering and policies
    Expression-based filtering uses a natural language format to reduce complexity for administrators while giving them more flexibility. Use expressions to set up rules and criteria for more granular management of user access, apply a Parallels RAS client connection policy to specified objects, set logon hours to restrict user access to farm resources, manage multifactor authentication (MFA) requirements, and more.
  • Power management
    A key feature of running virtual machines (VMs) in the cloud is that businesses pay only for the computing resources they use. VDI VMs are typically used only during business hours. Parallels RAS power management enables administrators to set a schedule to power existing VMs on or off the supported provider platforms, including Microsoft Azure, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Amazon EC2.
  • Email-based account discovery
    Getting users connected to their virtual apps and desktops through a Parallels client is easier than ever. End users can now enter their email address to get connection details—they no longer need to enter a lengthy server address or URL for the farm. All native Parallels clients now support finding Parallels RAS farms by entering an email address.
  • Logon hours control
    Support Right to Disconnect initiatives and tighten security by setting rules for logon hours. Parallels RAS 19 enables you to set logon hours for published resources. Use expression-based flexible rules to schedule access.

For a full list of features, refer to the Parallels RAS 19 release notes.

Parallels RAS 18.3.1

Pen-pressure support is now available for the Parallels Web (HTML5) Client! Visit our blog for more information about the business and education benefits of this addition. For other changes in this release, see the release notes.

Parallels RAS 18.3

Parallels RAS 18.3 continues to improve the user experience and provide new flexibility and security controls. Highlights include:

  • Complete support for the latest versions of Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022
    Take advantage of improved security and an enhanced user experience with Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022.
  • Improved Azure Virtual Desktop Integration
    A streamlined process means customers can now make use of Azure Active Directory Domain Services (AADDS) without the need to use hybrid Active Directory Domain Services. In addition, media optimizations have improved audio and video for communication tools like Microsoft Teams.

Parallels RAS 18.2

Parallels RAS 18.2 optimizes resources, improves user session flow, supports the latest operating systems, and delivers new administrator features that enhance IT productivity. Highlights include:

  • Optimal Routing
    Optimize user session traffic flow by specifying a preferred tunneling route between the end client and published resources.
  • Parallels Client: Support for Latest Operating Systems
    The Parallels Client now supports the latest versions of Windows, macOS, and iOS, improving the end user experience.
  • Parallels Web (HTML5) Client: Native Clipboard Experience
    Users can now copy, cut, and paste plain text from a remote session to their device directly (and vice versa), improving productivity.
  • Parallels RAS Reporting: New and extended reports
  • Web-Based Management Portal: New administrative capabilities
  • Updated Support for Hyperconverged Providers

Parallels RAS 18.1

Parallels RAS 18.1 continues to improve user session management, simplifies access to Remote PC for end-users, adds new features for Azure Virtual Desktop integration and delivers the Parallels Client for Mac now optimized to run natively on Apple M1 and Intel chips. Highlights include:

  • Combined User Session Management
    A new Sessions category combines all user sessions and associated session details, whether they are hosted on RD Session Hosts, VDI, Azure Virtual Desktop or Remote PCs.
  • Self-Service Remote PC Access
    End users can enroll their preferred Windows PC on the Parallels RAS Farm in a self-service manner, automatically creating a corresponding published desktop.
  • Azure Virtual Desktop: New Features
    Azure Virtual Desktop integration is even better! Now admins can override host sizes for each host pool, leverage RDP Shortpath for a direct UDP-based connection, use SAML (2.0) SSO, and more.
  • Parallels Client for Mac on Apple M1 and Intel Chips
    The Parallels Client for Mac is rebuilt and optimized to run natively on Apple M1 and Intel-based Mac devices alike, increasing end-user performance.
  • Dynamic Session Resolution Update
    Improve user experience by dynamically updating the remote desktop session's resolution when in windowed mode, without needing to reconnect to the session.
  • Bidirectional Clipboard and File Transfer Control
    Increase security by not permitting users to copy or download data from remote sessions to local devices. Users may copy or upload data from local devices to remote applications.
  • Granular Multifactor Authentication Configuration
  • Maintenance for Published Resources
  • Yubico - YubiKey (PIV) Support
  • Tenant Broker: Multiple Addresses for a Single Tenant

Parallels RAS 18

Parallels RAS 18 integrates and enriches the Azure Virtual Desktop experience, supports FSLogix Profile Containers, significantly improves IT service delivery and reduces infrastructure costs. Highlights include:

  • Azure Virtual Desktop Integration
    Extend Azure Virtual Desktop capabilities by integrating, configuring and unifying all virtual workloads and resources from a centralized console. Integrate Parallels RAS deployments with Azure Virtual Desktop, delivering a single solution to end users.
  • FSLogix Profile Containers Integration
    Easily deploy, configure and manage FSLogix Profile Containers centrally from the Parallels RAS Console, as the preferred integrated user profile management solution.
  • UX Evaluator & Advanced Session Metrics
    Administrators can improve service delivery by pinpointing issues faster and more accurately with the User Experience (UX) Evaluator metric, combined with a complete view of user session details.
  • Automated Image Optimizations
    Built-in automated image optimization capabilities for RDSH, VDI or Azure Virtual Desktop workloads improves the user experience, reduces IT infrastructure costs and accelerates time to production.
  • RDSH & VDI Local Storage Distribution
    Meet your storage needs cost effectively by deploying clones from templates to multiple, independent Microsoft Hyper-V hosts locally, in addition to existing shared storage deployments.
  • Management Portal
    Deploy and manage Parallels RAS environments and monitor user sessions from the newly updated web-based management portal. IT admins may remotely manage environments from their mobile devices.
  • Accelerated file retrieval
  • CPU optimization
  • Improved delivery with third-party load balancers

Parallels RAS 17.1

This latest version equips enterprises, managed service providers (MSPs) and independent software vendors (ISVs) with even greater capabilities to leverage application delivery and virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). Highlights include:

  • Multi-tenant architecture that enables multiple organizations to share Parallels RAS components.
  • Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML) support that adds single sign-on (SSO) functionality and streamlines management of user identities between different organizations.
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS) Elastic Load Balancer (ELB) support for greater high availability in the cloud.

Parallels RAS 17

Parallels RAS 17 helps organizations deliver remote applications and desktops to their employees, including an improved user experience with ultra-fast logon, better security, and simplified task management. Highlights include:

  • Extended multi-factor authentication options with Google Authenticator
    Parallels RAS 17 integrates with another popular MFA mechanism, allowing organizations to add an extra layer of security without any additional cost.
  • AI-based session pre-launch for ultra-fast login
    Parallels AI-based session pre-launch technology allows users to access their virtual workspace instantly, improving UX and boosting efficiency and productivity.
  • Windows Server 2019 support
    Take advantage of the advanced features and support of Microsoft Windows Server 2019, including RDS and Hyper-V.
  • Web-based console and Helpdesk tool
    A web-based console provides IT with more flexibility, allowing Parallels RAS infrastructure monitoring and user sessions troubleshooting from any web browser.
  • REST API
    Parallels RAS provides REST API, allowing organizations to integrate with existing orchestration and management solutions.
  • Turnkey VDI Solution with Scale Computing HC3
    Support for Scale Computing’s HC3 enables organizations to create an end-to-end cost-effective VDI solution.
  • Granular Administrator permissions
    Parallels RAS provides more granular options, allowing IT to configure specific permissions to administrators and delegate control of any Parallels RAS object.

Parallels RAS 16.5.3

Parallels RAS now includes support for yet another VDI platform, new developer tools, and a couple of client-side security enhancements, in addition to several other improvements. Highlights include:

  • Support for Scale Computer’s HC3 as a VDI platform
    HC3 is a new hyperconverged infrastructure solution that combines computer, storage, virtualization, backup, and disaster recovery in a single appliance. HC3 uses Scale Computing’s own KVM-based hypervisor, thereby positioning itself as a cost-effective, easy-to-use hyperconverged solution—qualities that perfectly match those of Parallels RAS.
  • New developer tools
    Parallels RAS has extended its use of RAS session variables. Previously, RAS session variables could only be used with published applications. In 16.5.3, this capability has been extended to published desktops as well.
  • Client-Side Security Enhancements
    he latest update includes some crucial client-side security enhancements in macOS, iOS, and Android clients, such as:
    • Displaying password requirements when a user is changing his/her password
    • Sending password expiration notifications
    • Enabling users to change their password as soon as they receive the notification

Parallels RAS 16.5

Parallels RAS now includes support for yet another VDI platform, new developer tools, and a couple of client-side security enhancements, in addition to several other improvements. Highlights include:

  • Streamlined deployment
    VDI Agent has been enhanced and is now incorporated into Publishing Agent. It eliminates extra components and allows multiple VDI-host management by the single Publishing Agent.
  • Solution resilience
    To reduce management downtime, the PA auto-promotion feature has been introduced. When the feature is enabled, the next PA in the Publishing Agent list is auto-promoted in the case of a Master Publishing Agent failure.
  • Automation
    Notifications have been enhanced. Not only are there new notification types, but there’s also support for monitoring in two directions: “Rises above” and “Decreases below.” You can also now allow a script to execute if certain events occur.
  • New granular client connection policies
    New granular policies offer IT admins more flexibility in configuring clients by splitting four categories into more than 20.
  • Azure multi-factor authentication (MFA) support
    New second-level authentication profiles have been added for Azure MFA and other providers to simplify configuration: Azure MFA Server via RADIUS, Duo, FortiAuthenticator, TekRADIUS
  • Microsoft App-V publishing
    Parallels RAS 16.5 adds the ability to enumerate Microsoft App-V packages delivered by the App-V infrastructure or SCCM during application publishing.
  • Parallels RAS Console
    The site dashboard has been extended to show additional performance metrics.
  • Windows Client customization
    New customization options let you rebrand the Windows Client (client binaries). You can now have the same branding as the HTML5 Client, personalizing the look and feel of Parallels Client for Windows with a logo on the login screen.
  • Refreshed HTML5 Client
    The HTML5 web client has been refreshed with a modern look.
  • Citrix XenApp 6.5 Migration tool
    Citrix XenApp 6.5 reached its end of life on June 30, 2018. To help Citrix users migrate to Parallels RAS, version 16.5 provides a migration tool.

Parallels RAS 16

Parallels RAS 16 continues to offer the best value among application and desktop delivery solutions, with several improvements that affect the performance and ease of use of the software. Highlights include:

  • Turbo.net Support
    With its integration with Turbo.net, Parallels RAS 16 allows for the containerization and provisioning of applications from the Turbo.net library. This lets administrators publish different versions of the same applications from the same server.
  • PowerShell Support
    Administrators can also leverage version 16’s support for Microsoft PowerShell 2.0. With PowerShell, IT administrators will be able to utilize automatic scripts, letting them tackle complex configurations and repetitive tasks in a simpler, more streamlined way.
  • VDI Improvements
    To further streamline the deployment and management of the VDI environment, the new version of Parallels RAS provides customizable VDI templates, clones, and linked clones. To support the improvements, personalized version of Sysprep is included. Parallels RASprep allows administrators to prepare and automatically configure Windows desktops, reducing lead time.
  • Mobile and HTML5 Client Improvements and Updates
    Parallels RAS continues to build on its excellent mobile experience by offering updated clients for iOS and Android devices. These clients now offer shortcut customizations that simplify the use of applications that require complex keystrokes. Access to applications delivered on iOS can also be protected by using a device passcode and Touch ID. Improvements to the HTML5 Client let administrators offer a customized look and feel for users or user groups.
  • Drag and drop
    Users connected to Parallels RAS through Parallels Client for Windows and Mac can easily drag and drop files and images from their local workstation to remote applications.