Parallels Desktop 26.1 brings new VM policies, conflict-aware deployment & Linux upgrades

Parallels Desktop 26.1 arrives just one month after version 26.0, introducing new management, deployment, and Linux compatibility improvements for both users and IT administrators. The update adds centralized controls that let admins define and enforce granular VM policies covering shared folders, clipboard access, USB connectivity, app sharing, and network modes. Managed through the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Management Portal, these settings remain active after deployment, giving IT teams oversight of user-created VMs while maintaining security and compliance standards.

Deployment workflows also get a major upgrade with a conflict-aware system that offers three strategies—Replace, Copy, or Skip—when existing VMs are detected. Retention policies can automatically remove or preserve older or unlisted machines, ensuring clean, consistent rollouts. These deployment features integrate with device management tools like Jamf Pro, simplifying large-scale updates and reducing setup conflicts.

Version 26.1 also combines Single Application Mode with Single Sign-On, allowing users to launch Windows apps directly from the macOS Dock while authenticating through their organization’s identity provider. On Linux, Parallels Tools now use Virtio-Sock for smoother integration with new kernel versions, improving reliability and maintaining features like dynamic resolution and shared clipboard. The Installation Assistant has also been updated with new Linux distributions and bug fixes.