How to Run Windows 11 on a Mac (Intel & Apple Silicon) -

Running Windows 11 on a Mac opens up a world of possibilities: access to exclusive Windows apps, gaming, testing environments for developers, or even just a more versatile workspace. Whether you’re using a Mac with an Intel processor or one powered by Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3), this guide will walk you through the best methods to get Windows 11 up and running efficiently.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to install Windows 11 using Parallels Desktop, Boot Camp, or UTM, and how to avoid the most common mistakes along the way. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, we’ve got options for you. You’ll also learn performance tips, time-saving tricks, and advanced workflows to boost your productivity.

You want to run windows 10? Check out this guide.

Step-by-Step Guide

For Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2/M3)

Method: Parallels Desktop (Recommended)

Download and install Parallels Desktop
- Visit parallels.com and download the latest version of Parallels Desktop.
- Choose the installer designed for Mac with Apple chip.
- Installation is straightforward, and the wizard will walk you through setup.
Download Windows 11 for ARM
- Go to the Microsoft Insider Preview for Windows 11 on ARM.
- Log in with your Microsoft account and download the VHDX image file.
- You may need to register as a Windows Insider if you haven’t already.
Create a new virtual machine
- Launch Parallels and click File > New.
- Select Install Windows or another OS from a DVD or image file.
- Drag and drop the downloaded VHDX image into the Parallels window.
Customize virtual machine settings
- Allocate at least 4 CPUs and 8 GB of RAM for optimal performance.
- For development or design work, consider bumping RAM to 16 GB if available.
- Enable the TPM chip in Parallels to meet Windows 11 system requirements.
- You can also enable nested virtualization if needed for development purposes.
Install Windows 11
- Start the VM and follow the standard Windows installation steps.
- Select your region, keyboard layout, and connect to the internet.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account and configure your settings.
Install Parallels Tools
- Once Windows is set up, Parallels will prompt you to install Parallels Tools.
- This enhances integration: copy-paste, drag-and-drop, screen resolution scaling, and more.
- Restart the VM after installation for changes to take effect.
Update Windows and drivers
- Open Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.
- Install all available updates, including optional drivers.
- Reboot the VM after major updates.

For Intel Macs

Method: Boot Camp (Native Installation)

Launch Boot Camp Assistant
- Navigate to Applications > Utilities > Boot Camp Assistant.
- This tool helps you partition your drive and install Windows.
Download a Windows 11 ISO
- Visit microsoft.com/software-download/windows11.
- Make sure to download the correct edition for your needs (Home or Pro).
- Ensure your Mac supports Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Older Macs may require bypass methods.
Partition your drive
- Choose how much space to allocate to Windows.
- 64 GB is the bare minimum; 128 GB or more is ideal for performance and apps.
- Boot Camp will guide you through partition creation.
Create installation media and begin installation
- Use a USB drive (16 GB or larger) to create a bootable installer.
- Boot Camp will copy necessary files and restart your Mac into Windows setup.
Install Windows
- Follow the Windows installer prompts: select the Boot Camp partition and format it.
- Proceed with installation, and your Mac will restart several times.
Install Boot Camp drivers
- Once in Windows, Boot Camp will automatically install drivers.
- This includes support for the trackpad, keyboard, GPU, and wireless components.
Complete setup and activate Windows
- Sign in to your Microsoft account.
- If needed, enter your license key or purchase one directly from Windows.

Alternative Method for Apple Silicon: UTM (Free and Open Source)

UTM is a flexible and free tool for those who prefer open-source software or are on a tight budget.

Download UTM from utm.io
- Choose the macOS version compatible with Apple Silicon.
- Drag the UTM app to your Applications folder.
Get Windows 11 ARM64 ISO
- Use the ARM Insider Preview ISO from Microsoft.
- You may need to convert the ISO to a compatible format using a tool like qemu-img.
Create a virtual machine
- Launch UTM and click Create a New Virtual Machine.
- Select Virtualize for best performance.
- Choose Windows ARM64 as the system architecture.
Configure resources and storage
- Allocate 4–6 CPUs and 8–16 GB RAM.
- Assign a virtual disk size (64 GB minimum; 128 GB+ recommended).
- Attach the ISO as a bootable CD/DVD drive.
Install Windows 11
- Start the VM and go through the installation process.
- This may be slower than Parallels but works reliably.
Install SPICE Guest Tools
- After Windows is installed, add SPICE tools to improve graphics and mouse support.
- Tools are available from the UTM GitHub page.
Update and personalize Windows
- Run updates and install desired software.
- Configure display scaling and power settings for better performance.

Pro Tips & Workflow Improvements

Enable Coherence Mode in Parallels to integrate Windows apps into macOS seamlessly.
Map shared folders in both Parallels and UTM for quick file transfers.
Set up Snap Layouts and virtual desktops for enhanced multitasking.
Use Microsoft Edge across both systems to keep browsing data in sync.
Assign keyboard shortcuts in both systems for quick toggling.
Use an external SSD for your VM storage if internal space is tight.
Install antivirus software in Windows, especially if browsing or downloading frequently.
Regularly snapshot your VM so you can roll back in case of errors.

Advanced Use Case: Automating Tasks Between macOS and Windows

You can create an efficient hybrid workflow using automation and shared file paths:

Use AutoHotKey in Windows to automate app launching, window management, and text expansion.
Use macOS Automator or Shortcuts to launch VMs, sync folders, or trigger scripts.
Create symbolic links or synced folders for file consistency across systems.
Use ClipboardFusion or Parallels Tools to synchronize clipboard content.
For developers, run build tools or test apps in Windows while editing code in macOS.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

Black screen during install: Usually caused by incompatible ISOs. Double-check ARM vs x64 versions.
Windows 11 installer blocks installation: Enable TPM and Secure Boot options in the VM settings.
No sound or network in Windows: Make sure Parallels Tools or UTM drivers are properly installed.
Performance issues: Allocate more CPU/RAM or upgrade to Parallels Pro for better VM performance.
VM won’t start: Ensure macOS security settings allow virtualization apps.
Boot Camp partition errors: Run Disk Utility to check and repair your Mac disk.
Activation problems: Contact Microsoft support if your license doesn’t activate.

Conclusion

Running Windows 11 on a Mac is not only possible—it’s practical and powerful. Whether you’re using Parallels Desktop for ease and speed, Boot Camp for native performance, or UTM for a free and open-source route, there’s a solution tailored to your needs.

With the right configuration, you can enjoy a seamless dual-OS setup, run critical apps, and switch between macOS and Windows effortlessly. Don’t stop here—explore deeper workflows, automation tools, and hybrid cloud services to get even more from your setup.

Ready to take the next step? Dive into our guide on sharing folders and files between Windows and macOS in Parallels or explore how to set up remote desktop access to your Windows VM from any device.