> 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/v20-en-us/parallels-desktop-for-mac-20-users-guide/advanced-topics/working-with-virtual-machines/removing-a-virtual-machine.md).

# Removing a Virtual Machine

If you don't need a virtual machine any more, you can permanently remove it from your Mac:

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Warning:** Before removing, check that none of the virtual machine files (e.g. virtual hard drives) are used by other virtual machines. If you remove a Boot Camp virtual machine, the Boot Camp partition with Windows installed remains available on your Mac.
{% endhint %}

1. Shut down the virtual machine if it is running, right-click in the virtual machine window and choose **Remove**. You can also click **File** > **Remove** or right-click this virtual machine in the **Control Center** and choose **Remove**.
2. Click **Move to Trash**.

### Remove a Virtual Machine from the Control Center

To temporarily remove a virtual machine from **Control Center**:

1. Shut down the virtual machine if it is running, right-click in the virtual machine window and choose **Remove**. You can also click **File** > **Remove** or right-click this virtual machine in the **Control Center** and choose **Remove**.
2. Click **Keep Files**.

When you need this virtual machine again, you can easily [import it in Parallels Desktop](/landing/pdfm-ug/v20-en-us/parallels-desktop-for-mac-20-users-guide/install-or-import-windows/importing-from-an-earlier-version-of-parallels-desktop-or-another-virtualization-application.md).


---

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