parallels desktop windows 10 desktop separate

Parallels Desktop for Windows 10: A Separate License for Each VM?

When it comes to running multiple virtual machines (VMs) on a single host machine, users often face licensing challenges. For instance, using Office on each VM can be a costly affair, especially when considering the separate licenses required for each VM. Similarly, Parallels Desktop, a popular virtualization software, has its own set of licensing rules that may come as a surprise to some users.

In this article, we'll explore the licensing implications of running multiple VMs with Parallels Desktop on Windows 10 and discuss the Microsoft solution to this problem.

Parallels Desktop's Licensing Policy

According to Parallels Desktop's terms and conditions, each different VM requires a separate license. This means that if you're using the software to run multiple VMs, you'll need to purchase a separate license for each one. The cost of this licensing can add up quickly, making it essential for users to understand the implications before purchasing the software.

For example, I recall finding a price of $CDN13000 for two years, which is a significant investment for any individual or organization. This highlights the importance of understanding Parallels Desktop's licensing policy and its impact on your budget.

Microsoft's Solution: Open Value Subscription

Microsoft offers an alternative solution to this problem in the form of the Open Value Subscription (OVS). With OVS, users can register under a centralized subscription model that allows them to use software tools on any system. This means that you can configure your virtual machines with different software configurations and then dispose of them after use.

However, there's a catch: Microsoft requires users to pay the full Windows license fee for each VM they create, regardless of how long it lasts. This means that if you're using multiple VMs, you'll need to purchase separate Windows licenses for each one.

In conclusion, Parallels Desktop's licensing policy requires users to purchase a separate license for each different VM they create. While this may seem restrictive, Microsoft's Open Value Subscription offers an alternative solution that allows users to configure their virtual machines with different software configurations and dispose of them after use. However, users should be aware of the full Windows license fee required for each VM.

Parallels desktop windows 10 desktop separate