> 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.md).

# About Virtual Machines

To add Windows or another operating system to your Mac, Parallels Desktop creates a "**virtual machine**," or a virtual computer, inside your Mac. You can then install Windows in the virtual machine, just as you would install an operating system on a regular computer.

Many use Parallels Desktop to create one virtual machine and install Windows in it. But you can install as many virtual machines as you like, and install a different operating system in each of them. That way you can use multiple operating systems together at the same time on your Mac. And just like with a regular computer, you can turn virtual machines on and off, configure them, and install and use applications.


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# Agent Instructions
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