> 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/parallels-desktop-preferences-and-virtual-machine-settings/virtual-machine-settings/hardware-settings/usb-and-bluetooth-settings.md).

# USB Settings

In the **USB** pane, you can view and configure the USB-related settings.

To open these settings, choose **Actions** > **Configure** > **Hardware**, then click **USB**.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**: This panel previously included the settings for Shared Bluetooth, which was deprecated in Parallels Desktop for Mac 26. Bluetooth devices (e.g., keyboards, mice, or game controllers) connected to your Mac will continue to work normally in virtual machines.\
\
To connect a Bluetooth device directly to a virtual machine, consider using a USB Bluetooth dongle.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/hVLphlNWs82OS4cXatMx/blobs/XlXP3rcsHgmbxIHnzUBv/PDFM-122847_Deprecate_Shared_BT.png" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<table><thead><tr><th width="312">Option</th><th>Description</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Share smart card readers with Windows</strong></td><td><p>When this option is selected, you can use your Mac's smart card readers in Windows.</p><p>Please note that you will be able to use only those smart card readers that function properly in macOS (i.e. have the necessary drivers installed).<br></p><p>If your smart card reader works in macOS but for some reason doesn't appear in Windows, please try to connect it using the <strong>Devices</strong> > <strong>USB</strong> menu as <a href="/landing/pdfm-ug/parallels-desktop-for-mac-27-users-guide/use-windows-on-your-mac/connecting-external-devices.md">described here</a>.</p></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Allow external devices</strong> (available in Parallels Desktop for Mac Business and Enterprise Editions only)</td><td>Use this list to specify what devices can be connected to the virtual machine via USB.</td></tr></tbody></table>


---

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