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Description
Parallels Desktop 26 Standard Edition — Mac macOS Tahoe 26 + Windows 11 25H2
Run Windows on your Mac without rebooting — the only Microsoft-authorized way to run Windows 11 on Apple Silicon, now optimized for macOS Tahoe 26 and Windows 11 25H2.
Parallels Desktop 26 is the industry-standard solution for running Windows, Linux, and other operating systems on a Mac — without rebooting, without dual-boot setups, and without choosing between macOS and Windows. The only virtualization software authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 on Apple Silicon Macs, Parallels Desktop 26 Standard is fully optimized for macOS Tahoe 26 and Windows 11 25H2, supporting both Apple Silicon (M1 through M4) and Intel-based Macs. Run any Windows application alongside your Mac apps, copy-paste between operating systems, share files seamlessly, and switch between macOS and Windows with a single click.
Available at ITFactory.ca — Canada's trusted source for virtualization software. Delivered as a digital download. See product options for subscription or perpetual licence.
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Windows Licence Required — Sold Separately Parallels Desktop 26 is the virtualization software — it provides the environment to run Windows, but does not include a Windows licence. A separate Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise licence is required to run Windows legally on your Mac. Windows 11 Home is not recommended as it lacks features required for smooth virtualization. Windows 11 Pro licences are available separately at ITFactory.ca. Alternatively, if you already own a Windows licence, it can be used with Parallels Desktop. |
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Standard Edition — Subscription vs Perpetual Licence
The Pro Edition is available as subscription only — no perpetual licence option. See product options for available licence types. |
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How to Activate Parallels Desktop 26
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What Parallels Desktop 26 Standard Includes
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macOS Tahoe 26 + Windows 11 25H2 — Fully Optimized |
Only Microsoft-Authorized Windows 11 Virtualization on Apple Silicon |
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Coherence Mode — Windows Apps Feel Like Mac Apps |
x86 Emulation Preview — Run Legacy Intel Windows Apps on Apple Silicon |
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Apple Intelligence Writing Tools in Windows |
Accurate Mac Disk Visibility in Windows |
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Seamless Copy-Paste, Drag-and-Drop, and File Sharing |
OBS Camera Integration |
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Run Linux, macOS, and More |
Up to 8GB vRAM and 4 vCPUs (Standard) |
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Apple Silicon and Intel Mac Support |
SOC 2 Type II Compliant |
Who Is This For?
Parallels Desktop 26 Standard is for Mac users who need to run Windows applications for work, education, or personal use — without dedicating a separate Windows PC. Home users, students, and professionals running standard Windows productivity software, line-of-business applications, or Windows-only tools will find the Standard Edition covers their needs completely.
Mac users who need Windows apps for work Students and educators Home and home office users Users of Windows-only line-of-business software Anyone switching from PC to Mac who needs Windows
System Requirements
| Mac processor | Apple Silicon (M1 or later) or Intel Core i5 / i7 / i9 / Xeon |
| Host macOS | macOS 14 Sonoma, macOS 15 Sequoia, macOS 26 Tahoe |
| RAM | 8GB minimum — 16GB or more recommended |
| Storage | 600MB for Parallels Desktop installation + storage for each virtual machine (Windows 11 requires approximately 64GB) |
| Guest OS — Windows | Windows 11 Pro / Enterprise (recommended) — sold separately |
| Guest OS — Linux | Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Kali, RHEL, CentOS, and others |
| Internet | Required for activation, updates, and select features |
| vRAM / vCPU limit (Standard) | Up to 8GB vRAM, up to 4 virtual CPUs per VM |
Product Details
| Publisher | Parallels International GmbH |
| Product | Parallels Desktop 26 for Mac — Standard Edition |
| Delivery | Digital download — activation key by email |
| Licence type | Annual subscription or perpetual licence — see product options |
| Platform | macOS only (not compatible with Windows PCs or Linux) |
| Windows not included | Windows 11 Pro licence required — sold separately at ITFactory.ca |
| Sold by | ITFactory.ca — authorized Parallels reseller |
Why Buy from ITFactory.ca?ITFactory.ca is a trusted Canadian retailer for software and productivity solutions, serving individuals and businesses across the country. Every licence we sell is genuine and sourced through authorized channels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy Windows separately?
Yes. Parallels Desktop 26 provides the virtualization environment — a separate Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise licence is required to run Windows legally. Windows Home is not recommended for virtualization as it lacks several features needed for reliable VM operation. If you already have a Windows licence from a previous PC, it can typically be transferred to Parallels — check Microsoft's licence transfer terms for your specific licence type. Windows 11 Pro licences are available separately at ITFactory.ca.
Should I choose the subscription or the perpetual licence?
The subscription includes all future major versions automatically — when Parallels Desktop 27 is released, subscription holders get it at no extra cost, including unlimited support during the subscription period. The perpetual licence lets you use Parallels Desktop 26 indefinitely without renewal, but upgrading to future major versions requires a paid upgrade. If you upgrade Parallels every year to stay current with new macOS versions, the subscription is generally better value over time. If you prefer a fixed one-time cost and are comfortable paying for upgrades when you choose to, the perpetual licence suits that preference. Note: the Pro Edition is subscription-only — no perpetual option.
What is the difference between Standard and Pro?
The Standard Edition supports up to 8GB vRAM and 4 virtual CPUs per VM — sufficient for most everyday Windows productivity use. The Pro Edition increases these limits significantly (up to 128GB vRAM and 32 vCPUs), and adds Parallels Toolbox, advanced developer tools including CLI and Visual Studio integration, and enhanced networking features. Pro is designed for developers, power users, and professionals running resource-intensive Windows applications or multiple VMs simultaneously. Pro is subscription-only. Parallels Desktop 26 Pro is available at ITFactory.ca.
Does it work on Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4)?
Yes — Parallels Desktop 26 is fully supported on Apple Silicon Macs and is the only Microsoft-authorized way to run Windows 11 on these machines. On Apple Silicon, only the ARM version of Windows 11 is supported natively; however, the new x86 emulation preview feature in version 26 allows some Intel-based Windows and Linux applications to run on Apple Silicon Macs with varying compatibility.
Will my Windows performance slow down my Mac?
Parallels Desktop is designed to run Windows efficiently using macOS resources. On modern Macs with 16GB or more RAM, everyday Windows tasks run smoothly without noticeable impact on macOS performance. On Macs with 8GB RAM, both operating systems share limited memory and performance trade-offs may be more noticeable. Parallels includes an automatic optimization feature that recommends vRAM and CPU settings appropriate for your Mac's hardware configuration.
Refund Policy
Refund and Return Policy
Most physical products can be returned within 30 days of delivery. Software downloads are final sale once the activation key is sent, unless defective. Here is how it works.
| Product type | Return window | Restocking fee |
|---|---|---|
| Digital software | Defective only | 0% |
| Physical, unopened | 30 days | 15% |
| Physical, opened | 30 days | 25% |
| Defective or wrong item | 30 days | 0%, free return shipping |
| Open box items | 7 days (DOA only) | 0% |
| Final sale items | No returns | N/A |
1. Digital products (downloadable software)
Final sale, limited exceptions. Software downloads are final sale once the activation key is sent. No refunds for wrong purchase, change of mind, compatibility issues or buyer’s remorse.
Refunds only if defective: the activation key does not work after verification; the software crashes on a system that meets minimum requirements; the publisher confirms the key is invalid or already used.
Your responsibility: verify system requirements before purchasing. Once you receive the activation key, the sale is final unless the software is defective.
To request a refund: email sales@itfactory.ca within 30 days with your order number and a detailed description of the issue. We will troubleshoot with you first.
2. Physical products
30-day returns. Return most physical products within 30 days of delivery.
Restocking fees: defective, damaged or wrong item: 0% plus free return shipping; unopened (changed mind): 15%; opened or used (changed mind): 25%.
Return requirements: original packaging and all accessories; intact UPC code or barcode; no physical damage; an RMA number obtained before returning.
Cannot be returned: final sale items; open box items (except DOA within 7 days); items without original packaging; items with removed UPC codes; items used for mail-in rebates.
3. How to return
Get an RMA number
Email support@itfactory.ca with your order number, the item(s) to return, the reason, and photos if defective or damaged. We reply within 1 to 2 business days with your RMA number and instructions.
Ship the return
Write the RMA number on the outside of the package and include all original packaging and accessories. Use the label we provide, or ship to ITFactory, 4035 St-Ambroise, Unit 310, Montréal, QC H4C 2E1. Keep your tracking number.
Receive your refund
Once we receive and inspect the return (3 to 5 business days), we process your refund. It usually appears in 5 to 10 business days depending on your bank.
4. Defective or wrong items
Contact us right away at support@itfactory.ca or (888) 313-1124. We provide a prepaid return label and offer a full refund, replacement or store credit. No restocking fee.
5. Exchanges
We do not offer direct exchanges. Return the original item for a refund, then place a new order for the item you want.
6. Cancellations
Digital products can be cancelled if the activation key has not been sent yet. Physical products can be cancelled if the order has not shipped yet. Contact us immediately at support@itfactory.ca or (888) 313-1124.
7. Special circumstances
Order verification: we may verify orders before processing. If we contact you, please respond within 3 business days or the order is automatically cancelled and refunded. Pricing errors: we reserve the right to cancel orders placed at an incorrect price; you receive a full refund. Out of stock: if an item becomes unavailable after ordering, we notify you and offer to wait for restock or a full refund.
8. Manufacturer warranties
Many products include manufacturer warranties separate from our 30-day return policy. Warranty claims after 30 days should be directed to the manufacturer. We can help facilitate warranty claims when possible.
Phone: (888) 313-1124
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM ET
The policy in effect at the time of your purchase applies to your order. We recommend reviewing this policy before each purchase.