Configuring a networking option in Parallels is pretty simple, but understanding what the options do and deciding which one to use can be a little tougher. A quick rundown of each option is in order before we proceed.
Networking Options
- Shared Networking. This option takes advantage of your Mac's built-in ability to share a network connection with other computers. This built-in function is similar to Windows ICS (Internet Connection Sharing).
- Bridged Ethernet. This is the option I recommend. It takes advantage of your Mac's ability to respond to more than one IP address on its Ethernet or wireless connection port. In essence, one IP address will be used for your Mac, and a separate IP address will be assigned to the Windows virtual machine. This makes the Windows virtual machine appear as if it's just another computer on your home or office network.
- Host-only Networking. This option lets the Windows virtual machine access your Mac and nothing else. This is the minimum level of networking necessary for your Mac and the Windows virtual machine to share files.
- Networking is not required. This one is pretty self-explanatory. But remember: even if you don’t have a network or an Internet connection, you may still want to use the Host-only Networking option instead, so you can share files between OS X and Windows.
Select the Networking Option to use
- Select 'Bridged Ethernet' from the list.
- Click the ‘Next’ button.
