Install Windows Vista on a Custom-created Parallels Virtual Machine

Installation Type and Location

Microsoft product screen shot reprinted with permission from Microsoft Corporation.

Normally you can either install Vista as an upgrade to an existing version of Windows, or as a fresh, clean install. When you install Vista to a new virtual machine, your choice will be limited to the custom option, which performs a clean install. For the purposes of this guide, we'll assume that you're installing Vista on a new virtual machine.

Choose the Installation Type

1. Pick the installation type.
   • Upgrade. This option retains your current files and settings and upgrades your current version of Windows to Vista.
     
     
   • Custom (advanced). This option installs a clean copy of Vista. This is the option most users will select when installing Vista to a Parallels virtual machine.
     
     
2. Click the ‘Custom (advanced)’ button.
   
   

   Select an Installation Location

3. Highlight the virtual disk (machine) you created during the Parallels custom install. It will be the only disk listed, and will probably be named Disk 0.
   
   
4. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   

Vista will now begin the installation process

• Start the Windows Vista Installation Process
• Product Key and Licensing
• Installation Type and Location
• Create an Account and Name Your Computer
• Windows Protection Level
• Set the Time and Date, and Log In for the First Time
• Install Parallels Tools
• Parallels Tools Wizard