Solving the Slow Performance Issue of Parallels M1 Windows 11

When switching to Windows 11 on ARM, some users may experience slow performance issues with their virtual machines (VMs) running under Parallels Desktop on Mac computers with Apple M1 chips. In this article, we will explore a simple solution to resolve this problem and improve the overall performance of your VM.

Identifying the Culprit

The slow VM experience is often caused by Spotlight indexing, which can interfere with the Parallels VM folder. To exclude your virtual machine from Spotlight searches, follow these steps:

1. Open System Settings on your macOS.

2. Click on the 'Spotlight' tab in the Privacy section.

3. Select the 'Parallels VM' folder and click 'Select.'

Preventing Interference

By excluding the Parallels VM folder from Spotlight indexing, you prevent any potential interference that may slow down your virtual machine. This simple step can significantly reduce CPU load and improve overall performance.

The Fix: Excluding the Parallels VM Folder from Spotlight Indexing

To exclude the Parallels VM folder from Spotlight indexing, follow these steps:

1. Click on the 'Plus' symbol at the bottom left of the System Settings window.

2. Navigate to the folder where your Parallels VM files are stored.

3. Select the folder and click 'Select.'

4. In the Privacy tab, toggle off Spotlight indexing for the selected folder.

Restarting Your Mac

After making these changes, restart your M1 Mac to ensure that the folder is properly excluded from Spotlight searches.

Excluding the Parallels VM folder from Spotlight indexing is a simple and effective solution to resolve slow performance issues with Windows 11 on ARM under Parallels Desktop on Mac computers with Apple M1 chips. By following these steps, you can improve the overall performance of your virtual machine and enjoy a smoother computing experience.

Additional Information

Parallels Desktop 16 supports this feature on Mac computers with Apple M1 chips starting from version 16.5.2. Microsoft has also announced that it will align the enforcement of Windows 11 system requirements for Virtual Machines (VMs) to be the same as those for physical PCs, effective September 16, 2021.

Parallels m1 windows 11