Have you ever wanted to run Windows on a Mac? You may need to run software incompatible with Mac or just like the Windows operating system. Whatever the reason is, installing Windows on a Mac can be extremely helpful in many scenarios.
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Setup is relatively easy, but you will encounter some stumbling blocks. This step-by-step guide will help you overcome these issues and get your Windows machine up and running.
Step 1: Check your Secure Boot setting
Full Security is the level that Secure Boot uses by default. If you previously set it to No Security, you should revert it to its prior configuration of Full Security before installing Windows. This is done by going to the Apple Menu and selecting “System Preferences.” After you click on that, select the Security & Privacy icon. Once inside Security & Privacy, you should see a panel on the left side of the window labeled “Startup Security.
This is where you will select the level of security you want your system to use. You should see the option labeled “Full Security,” and if your Mac has a physical Secure Boot Shield installed, it will be highlighted in green. If it is not, it will be grayed out. If you see the option grayed out, click on the padlock key icon and enter your password. You should then be able to select the Full Security setting. Click “OK” to save your settings and close out of System Preferences.
After installing Windows, you may use any Secure Boot options without jeopardizing your computer’s ability to boot into Windows.
Step 2: Use Boot Camp Assistant to Create a Windows partition
Launch the Boot Camp Assistant application, which may be found in the Applications Utilities folder. Take note of the instructions that appear on the screen.
When Boot Camp Assistant invites you to choose the size of the Windows partition, remember the requirements established in the preceding section for the bare minimum amount of storage space. Because the size of a partition cannot be modified once it is established, it is critical to choose a size that is adequate for your needs.
Step 3: Format the Windows partition
If the installer asks where Windows should be installed, choose the Bootcamp partition and press the Format button. Mostly, the installer will automatically choose and format the Bootcamp partition. If it doesn’t, click on the Format button.
If you have trouble formatting the Bootcamp partition, you can use Disk Utility to format it. The Disk Utility is found in the Applications folder and can be accessed by opening the Utility folder and selecting Disk Utility.
Step 4: Install Windows
During the installation process, you should unplug any unnecessary external devices. These include the Boot Camp USB flash drive, printers, and anything else on the boot drive that isn’t needed. You can click the “Detect…” button to select your Mac if it doesn’t show up manually.
After that, choose Next, and follow the directions on the screen to start installing Windows.
What You Need to Run Windows on Mac
To run Windows on a Mac, you will need the following:
An Intel-based Mac Computer
This is the most important requirement. The virtual PC program will not work on any other type of computer because it requires an Intel processor.
64GB of Hard Drive Space
Windows can consume a great deal of hard drive space. It will also run several applications simultaneously, making the operating system feel extremely slow. You may need to delete a few applications before you can use the computer with Windows.
Power Connection
You will need an outlet for power to run the computer. This might be fine for most people, but if you are planning to use the Mac purely for word processing, then it is recommended that you use a power strip or a similar device.
Is Running Windows on Mac a Good Idea?
Windows is the leading gaming platform in the world. It has hundreds of games that you can’t get on Mac. If you are a hardcore gamer, then Windows on Mac might be the solution to your problems. Here are a few more reasons why it might be a good idea:
Cuts Down IT Costs
Users only need to buy a new computer every couple of years. They don’t have to pay for an additional operating system or worry about the compatibility issues of multiple operating systems on the same computer. Thus, it cuts down on IT costs.
Eliminates the Need to Switch
People don’t want to move from different laptops and PCs simply because of the fact that they are not compatible with each other. You can use one machine for everything by running Windows on a Mac. You will still have the flexibility to switch from Windows to Mac.
Gets the Job Done
Mac is known for being very user-friendly. Running Windows on it will help many people get the job done. The fact that many applications are compatible with the Mac makes it compatible with many software available for Windows. Even though the operating systems are different, they behave very similarly.
Encourages Learning
Learning a new OS is a daunting task. People usually have to invest quite some time into the process. Thus, it discourages users from trying something new. Running Windows on Mac will make them more open to switching operating systems.
Helps Users Expand
Running a virtual PC will help users develop the skills needed to be more creative and creative in general and have a greater desire to learn something new.
What Lasts Longer, Mac or Windows?
Windows is more stable and reliable. It is compatible with millions of applications and games. However, Mac’s reputation could be better in the reliability department.
One of the primary reasons is that it does not have virus protection software like Windows. This makes it easier for hackers to hack into your computer and steal your data.
Is it Safe to Run Windows on Mac?
Windows has more viruses than macOS. You already know about the damage a virus can cause. Isn’t it better for you to keep your computer clean and virus-free? You are better off installing Windows on Mac rather than leaving it unprotected with no anti-virus protection.
Windows PC is more vulnerable than macOS. Some of its programs can infect your system with viruses.
