Parallels Running Slow on Mac? Try These 8 Fixes

Parallels is extremely convenient for those who need to run different operating systems simultaneously on a Mac. Without restarting, you can easily switch between multiple operating environments.

Although Parallels is convenient to use, it can be frustrating when performance slows down, especially when you’re handling important tasks. Fortunately, there are several proven ways to fix Parallels' slow performance issue. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes and solutions to help you improve your Parallels experience on Mac.

Why Is Parallels Running Slowly on My Mac?

If Parallels suddenly starts running slowly, consider the following possible causes:

• Your Mac is running multiple applications or processes simultaneously, overloading the CPU and slowing down Parallels.
• There isn’t enough RAM for Parallels to run virtual machines efficiently.
• The virtual machine’s disk space is limited, even if the virtual hard drive expands.
• High-resolution displays or advanced graphics settings may strain the system, especially if your Mac’s GPU isn’t powerful enough.
• You may encounter errors or compatibility issues when running an outdated version of Parallels.
• The operating system inside the virtual machine may require updates or patches.
• Updates to macOS can affect Parallels’ performance.
• Slow internet speeds may impact applications running inside the virtual machine.
• Over time, the virtual hard drive can become fragmented, leading to slower read and write speeds.

8 Fixes for the "Parallels Running Slow on Mac" Issue

To make Parallels run faster on your Mac, optimize RAM, CPU, GPU, and other resources. Here are some proven fixes you can try.

Close Applications

First, check if you’re running multiple applications at the same time. When too many apps are open simultaneously, they compete for system resources and can overload the CPU. As a result, Parallels may not have enough memory to run smoothly.

By closing unnecessary applications and background processes, Parallels can allocate more CPU power and memory to the virtual machine. To find and close running applications, open Activity Monitor on your Mac.

1. Open Activity Monitor by clicking Applications > Utilities or searching via Spotlight.
2. Check how much CPU each app is using.
3. Select the apps you want to close.
4. Click Force Quit to confirm the action.

Clear Parallels Cache

Over time, Parallels may accumulate cache files on your Mac. These temporary files help improve performance but can also take up disk space and system resources, eventually slowing Parallels down.

If you’ve used Parallels for a while, it’s recommended to use BuhoCleaner to remove redundant cache files. This frees up disk space and reduces the load on your Mac’s storage.

1. Download and launch BuhoCleaner on your Mac.
2. Click the Scan button to scan unnecessary files on your Mac.
   

   

3. Click View Details to select and delete the cache files you want to remove.
   

   

Monitor Resource Usage

It’s important to monitor system resource usage while running Parallels. You can use BuhoCleaner’s menu bar app to track CPU load in real time. If the CPU is overloaded, identify and close any resource-intensive apps or processes to free up system resources for Parallels. This helps your virtual machines run faster and more smoothly.

With BuhoCleaner’s menu bar app, you can also monitor other real-time metrics such as CPU temperature, fan speed, RAM usage, network speed, and disk space. By analyzing these indicators, you can take the right steps to optimize your Mac’s overall performance.

Free Up RAM for Parallels

To run Parallels efficiently, you’ll need at least 4 GB of RAM. However, if you run resource-intensive applications or multiple virtual machines, you may need 16 GB or more.

As a professional Mac cleaner, BuhoCleaner can help free up RAM by identifying and closing programs that consume excessive memory. This improves overall performance and makes Parallels run faster.

Optimize Graphics Settings

High-definition screens and advanced graphics settings can put a strain on system resources. Adjusting these settings can reduce the load on your Mac, allowing more resources for the virtual machine.

Update Parallels and Operating System

If Parallels continues to run slowly, check for updates. The latest version may fix bugs and improve compatibility with the latest macOS.

Also, make sure both your macOS and the guest OS are up to date. System updates often include patches that can enhance performance and stability.

Improve Network Performance

The network can also affect the speed and responsiveness of virtual machines. If your connection is slow or unstable, you may experience delays or lag. Try the following steps to improve network performance:

• Check which applications are using the most bandwidth in Activity Monitor and close them.
• Go to System Settings > Network and disable unnecessary network services.
• Configure Parallels network settings.
• Reset your Mac’s network settings through System Settings > Network.

Defragment the Virtual Hard Drive

As you create, modify, or delete files on your virtual hard drive, data can become fragmented, meaning file parts are stored in different locations. This fragmentation can slow down file access times. Defragmenting the virtual hard drive consolidates the data and improves responsiveness.

1. Shut down the virtual machine and open Parallels on your Mac.
2. Select the virtual machine and open its Configuration settings.
3. Go to Hardware and choose the virtual hard disk you want to defragment.
4. Click Defragment to start the process.

Conclusion

Don’t get discouraged if Parallels is running slowly on your Mac. To boost performance, optimize RAM, CPU, GPU, network, and other system resources.

To monitor and improve your Mac’s overall performance, install BuhoCleaner, a professional Mac cleaner that helps free up resources and deliver a smoother Parallels experience.