Parallels aims for enterprise market with latest Mac virtualisation product

Stephen Withers
Tuesday, 12 July 2011 14:53

Business IT - Technology

Parallels is looking to make its Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac virtualisation software more attractive to volume customers by offering an enterprise edition.

Installing an application is no big deal for the typical individual user, but you need automation and the right processes if you're managing hundreds or thousands of computers.

Virtualisation specialist has recognised the growing demand among enterprise buyers for a more easily managed version of its Parallels Desktop for Mac software by releasing an enterprise edition.

"Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac Enterprise Edition simplifies end-user workflow and extends productivity by running Windows programs like they are native to the Mac, regardless of network connectivity," said Kim Johnston, Vice President of Marketing for Parallels. "Business users gain the advantages of the world's bestselling, top-rated and most trusted solution for running Windows applications on the Mac while IT departments can simplify the management and administration of the solution on their managed Mac population."

The new edition allows preconfigured deployment, control over how and when updates are applied, works with existing software distribution and systems management tools, and a single volume licence key across all of an organisation's copies of Parallels Desktop.

Parallels Desktop for Mac Enterprise Edition is available as an annual subscription service. The minimum requirement is 100 licences, but prices are apparently open for negotiation as there is no mention of specific volume thresholds or per-unit prices in the announcement or on Parallels' web site.