How to Install Windows on a Mac

WARNING for Apple M1 users

As of January, 2021, there only way to run Windows on an Apple M1 Macbook is to use Parallels.

Apple discontinued Bootcamp and VMware has not released an update that supports the new M1 chip.

Mac memory and drive space requirements

The College of Engineering requires the following minimum specifications for Macs:

• You need 16 GB of RAM (memory). A Windows VM needs 8 GB and your Mac will need another 8 GB in addition.
• You need at least 250 GB of storage with at least 75 GB of free drive space (more may be needed depending on the number and size of Windows applications).

Note: Windows will not run on a flash/USB drive. If you don't have enough free drive space, you will need to either free up space or find a different computer.

Where to get the software

• Windows 10 - visit Microsoft's Azure website here https://azureforeducation.microsoft.com/devtools (STEM students only) and sign in with your mybama credentials. Click software on the left side of the page and search for Windows 10/11
• Parallels - Parallels offers a discount for students: go to Parallels.com and click Buy, Full Version, and select the Students tab.
• Bootcamp - built into MacOS (only in Macs released before Nov. 2020). Look in Applications, Utilities for the Bootcamp Assistant.

Video: How to download and Install VMware Fusion

As of January 2023, VMWARE is only available for fac/staff/grad students doing research

If you believe you fall under this category please email support@eng.ua.edu and we will confirm your status

Troubleshooting

For VMware issues see here