> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/pdfm-ug/parallels-desktop-for-mac-27-users-guide/advanced-topics/working-with-virtual-machines/about-virtual-machines/set-where-virtual-machines-are-stored.md).

# Set Where Virtual Machines Are Stored

By default, Parallels Desktop stores virtual machines in \~/Parallels.

To change the default location for new virtual machine installations:

1. Do one of the following:
   * Click the Parallels Desktop icon in the menu bar and choose **Preferences**. Then click **General**.
   * Right-click the Parallels Desktop icon in the Dock and choose **Preferences**. Then click **General**.
2. Choose a location from the **Virtual Machines Folder** menu.

All newly created virtual machines are stored in the new location. Any existing virtual machines remain in their original locations.


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