Installing Windows 11 ARM in Parallels on M1 Macs for Students


Introduction

Windows Virtualization may be an option, however, prior to purchasing Parallels, you should check with your department or instructor to make sure the application will run using Parallels on an M1 Mac.

Instructions

These virtual machine instructions require Parallels, which is not sold by the Virginia Tech Software Service Center but is available through the Virginia Tech Bookstore as well as third party retailers. Before proceeding, ensure that you have purchased and installed Parallels.

  1. Access Network Software and login using your VT Username (PID) and PID password. Select Virtual Software and then choose Virtual Windows 11 Education (22H2) ISO for use with Parallels on M1 Based Macs.
  2. After accepting the licensing terms, click Product Key(s) to obtain your product key. The product key is necessary for activation, so write down or copy the product key.

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  3. Ensure your Mac is connected to the internet and start Parallels Desktop. In the window that appears, click Install Windows to begin installation of Windows 11 for ARM. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, this process can take 20-60 minutes to complete.

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  4. When the installation is complete, click anywhere within the window and then accept the Windows License Agreement to begin using Windows 11.

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  5. In Windows, click the Start button and then click Settings.
    NOTE: The position of the Settings icon may differ in your start menu.

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  6. In the Activation Settings window, select Enter a product key.

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  7. Enter the product key you obtained in step 2 and click Next.

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  8. Click Activate to complete Windows activation.

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