Macs can’t open Windows .exe programs on their own, but there are several reliable ways to run them: a virtual machine that runs full Windows alongside macOS, a compatibility layer that runs individual programs without Windows, a cloud PC streamed over the internet, or, on older Intel Macs only, Boot Camp. The right choice depends on whether your Mac has an Apple silicon (M-series) or Intel chip, which programs you need, and your budget. This guide compares every option and walks through the most popular setups.
Quick Answer
On an Apple silicon Mac, install a virtual machine app such as Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion (free) or UTM (free), create a Windows 11 on Arm virtual machine, and install your Windows programs inside it. For a few apps or games without installing Windows, try CrossOver. On an Intel Mac, you can also use Boot Camp to install Windows directly.
First, Check Your Mac’s Chip
Click the Apple menu > About This Mac. If it lists Chip: Apple M1 (or M2, M3, M4 and later), you have Apple silicon. If it lists Processor: Intel, you have an Intel Mac.
- Apple silicon: runs Windows 11 on Arm in a virtual machine. Windows’ built-in emulation (Prism) runs most regular x64 Windows programs. Boot Camp isn’t available.
- Intel: runs regular x64 Windows in a virtual machine or via Boot Camp.
Compare Your Options
| Option | Cost | Needs Windows license | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parallels Desktop | Paid subscription (free trial) | Yes | Easiest setup, best integration, Microsoft-authorized on Apple silicon |
| VMware Fusion | Free | Yes | Free full virtual machine |
| UTM | Free (open source) | Yes | Tinkerers and occasional use |
| CrossOver | Paid (free trial) | No | Specific apps and games without Windows |
| Windows 365 / cloud PC | Monthly subscription | Included | Business users, any Mac with fast internet |
| Boot Camp | Free | Yes | Intel Macs needing full performance for games |
Method 1: Parallels Desktop (Easiest)
- Download Parallels Desktop from its official website and open the installer.
- When the Installation Assistant appears, choose Get Windows 11 from Microsoft. Parallels downloads and installs the correct version for your Mac automatically.
- Sign in with or create a Parallels account, then wait for Windows to finish setting up.
- Activate Windows with a product key or buy a license from the Microsoft Store inside Windows.
- Install your Windows programs inside the virtual machine as you would on a PC.
Parallels’ Coherence mode hides the Windows desktop so Windows programs open in their own windows alongside Mac apps, and you can launch them from the Dock.
Method 2: VMware Fusion (Free)
- Download VMware Fusion from Broadcom’s support portal (a free account is required).
- Download a Windows 11 disk image: the Arm64 ISO for Apple silicon, or the x64 ISO for Intel Macs, from Microsoft’s website.
- In Fusion, click File > New, drag in the ISO and follow the prompts. Enable the virtual TPM when asked, since Windows 11 requires it.
- Complete Windows setup, then install VMware Tools for better graphics, file sharing and copy/paste.
Method 3: CrossOver (No Windows Needed)
- Download CrossOver and start the free trial.
- Click Install and search for your program. If it’s listed, CrossOver downloads and configures it for you.
- If it’s not listed, choose Install an unlisted application and select the program’s .exe installer.
CrossOver is based on Wine. Compatibility varies by program, so check its compatibility database before buying. Some games with anti-cheat software won’t run.
Method 4: Cloud PC
With Windows 365 (or other cloud desktop services), Windows runs on a remote server and you connect using Microsoft’s Windows App for Mac. It works on any Mac but needs a fast, stable connection and a monthly subscription, and it’s aimed mainly at businesses.
Method 5: Boot Camp (Intel Macs Only)
- Open Boot Camp Assistant from Applications > Utilities.
- Choose a Windows 10 ISO and set the size of the Windows partition (at least 64 GB is recommended).
- Follow the prompts; the Mac restarts into the Windows installer.
- Hold Option at startup to choose macOS or Windows.
Boot Camp officially supports Windows 10, not Windows 11, and Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Use it only if you need full native performance on an Intel Mac.
Tips for Better Performance
- Give the virtual machine at least 4 GB of RAM and 2 CPU cores, or more if your Mac has 16 GB or more.
- Store the virtual machine on the internal SSD, not a slow external drive.
- Look for a Mac version or a web version of the program first. It will usually run better than a Windows version.
- Arm versions of Windows can’t use drivers written for x64 only, so some printers, VPNs and hardware tools may not work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run Windows games on a Mac?
Many older and less demanding games run in Parallels or CrossOver. Demanding games and those with kernel-level anti-cheat often don’t. Check each game’s compatibility first.
Do I need to buy Windows?
For a virtual machine or Boot Camp, yes, to activate it fully. Unactivated Windows works with limitations such as a watermark and locked personalization settings.
Is it safe?
Yes, but Windows inside a virtual machine needs its own antivirus protection and updates.
Summary
- Check whether your Mac has Apple silicon or Intel.
- Pick a virtual machine (Parallels, VMware Fusion or UTM), CrossOver, a cloud PC or Boot Camp.
- Install Windows if needed, then your programs.
- Give the VM enough memory for smooth performance.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.