Install Windows Vista on a Custom-created Parallels Virtual Machine

Create an Account and Name Your Computer

Microsoft product screen shot reprinted with permission from Microsoft Corporation.

The Vista installation requires you to create an administrator account. The account you create during the installation process will be the main administrator account. Even if you're normally the only one who uses your computer, I recommend assigning a password to this account, to ensure that no one else can access Vista and change any settings. (Of course, if you forget to make a note of the password, you won't be able to change any settings, either.)

Create the Administrator Account

1. Enter a user name. Because this is the first account you will create, it will be an administrator account.
   
   
2. Enter a password for the account.
   
   
3. Enter the password a second time to verify it.
   
   
4. Enter a password hint. Although this step isn’t required, it's a good idea to enter a hint, to help jog your memory in case you ever forget your password. It's also a good idea to make a note of your password in a secure place.
5. Pick an image to use for the account. Click on one of the displayed images to select it.
   
   
6. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   

Name That Computer

1. Enter a name for the computer. This will be the name that identifies this computer to any other computer that's on the same network. Keep the name under 15 characters, with no spaces or special characters. It should not be the same as the user name you entered earlier.
   
   
2. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   

Index: Install Windows Vista on a Custom-created Parallels Virtual Machine

1. Start the Windows Vista Installation Process
2. Product Key and Licensing
3. Installation Type and Location
4. Create an Account and Name Your Computer
5. Windows Protection Level
6. Set the Time and Date, and Log In for the First Time
7. Install Parallels Tools
8. Parallels Tools Wizard