Opening an EXE file on a Mac M1 can be a bit tricky since EXE files are designed to run on Windows operating systems. However, there are a few methods you can try to open an EXE file on your Mac M1. Let’s explore these methods in detail.
1. Using CrossOver:
CrossOver is a commercial software that allows you to run Windows applications on your Mac without the need for a Windows license. It utilizes a technology called Wine, which acts as a compatibility layer to run Windows software on macOS. Follow these steps to open an EXE file using CrossOver:
– Visit the CrossOver website and download the software compatible with Mac M1.
– Once downloaded, open the CrossOver installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install it on your Mac.
– After installation, launch CrossOver and click on the “Install Windows Software” button.
– In the search bar, type the name of the Windows program you want to run and select it from the list.
– Follow the prompts to complete the installation of the Windows program.
– Once installed, you should be able to locate the program in your Applications folder or through the CrossOver interface. Double-click on it to run the EXE file.
2. Using Parallels Desktop:
Parallels Desktop is another commercial software that enables you to run Windows on your Mac. It creates a virtual machine environment, allowing you to install and run Windows applications seamlessly. Here’s how you can use Parallels Desktop to open an EXE file:
– Visit the Parallels website and download the version of Parallels Desktop compatible with Mac M1.
– Install Parallels Desktop by following the on-screen instructions.
– Once installed, launch Parallels Desktop and set up a new virtual machine with a Windows operating system.
– Install the Windows operating system within the virtual machine using the provided installation media or ISO file.
– After setting up the virtual machine, you can install the Windows program that you want to run.
– Once the program is installed, you can open the EXE file within the virtual machine environment by double-clicking on it.
3. Using VirtualBox:
VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization software that allows you to run multiple operating systems on your Mac. It can be used to create a virtual machine and install a Windows operating system to run EXE files. Follow these steps to use VirtualBox:
– Visit the VirtualBox website and download the version compatible with Mac M1.
– Install VirtualBox by following the provided instructions.
– Launch VirtualBox and create a new virtual machine, specifying the desired settings and allocating system resources.
– Install the Windows operating system within the virtual machine.
– Once the Windows operating system is installed, you can install the Windows program that you want to run and open the EXE file within the virtual machine environment.
It’s worth noting that running Windows applications on a Mac through virtualization or compatibility layers may not provide the same performance or seamless experience as using a native Windows machine. Additionally, not all Windows programs may be compatible or work correctly on macOS using these methods.
Utilizing software like CrossOver, Parallels Desktop, or VirtualBox can help you open and run EXE files on your Mac M1. However, it’s important to consider the performance and compatibility limitations when using these methods.