Install Windows Vista on a Custom-created Parallels Virtual Machine

Parallels Tools Wizard

Microsoft product screen shot reprinted with permission from Microsoft Corporation.

Now that you've managed to work your way past Vista's user account controls, the Parallel Tools wizard will walk you the installation process.

Parallels Tools Wizard

1. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   
2. Accept the default destination for installing Parallels Tools.
   
   
3. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   
4. Select a type of installation.
   
   
   • Complete. Choose this option to install all of the Parallels Tools. This is the choice I recommend. It will install the mouse and keyboard drivers that let you enter and leave the virtual machine without having to use the CTRL + ALT key combination, as well as install enhanced video drivers for better video performance.
     
     
   • Custom. This option lets you pick and choose the Parallels Tools you want to install.
     
     
5. Select 'Complete.'
   
   
6. Click the ‘Next’ button.
   
   
7. Click the ‘Install’ button to start installing Parallels Tools.
   
   
8. Windows won't be able to verify the publisher of this driver software. You will see this warning message multiple times as the Parallels Tools installation progresses.
   
   
9. Click the ‘Install this driver software anyway’ option each time the warning displays.
   
   
10. When the Parallels Tools installer completes the installation it must restart your Vista virtual machine in order for the changes to take effect.
    
    
11. Click the ‘Restart’ button.
    
    

Vista will restart and then display the login window. You've survived the Vista installation process; now it's time to have some fun with Windows.

• 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