DesktopServer vs Parallels Desktop

DesktopServer

Description: DesktopServer is an open source WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL and PHP) distribution that allows developers to run web server software on Windows desktops for testing purposes. It is free, easy to install and configure.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Parallels Desktop

Description: Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software for macOS that allows users to run multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux, alongside macOS on a Mac computer. Known for its ease of use and performance, Parallels Desktop provides a seamless integration of virtual machines with the macOS environment.

Type: software

Pricing: free

DesktopServer Features

• Bundled with Apache, MySQL, PHP and other components required for web development
• Allows running a web server on Windows desktop for testing purposes
• Open source and free to download and use
• Easy to install and configure
• Supports running PHP applications locally
• Includes phpMyAdmin for MySQL database administration
• Allows choosing desired versions of Apache, PHP, MySQL etc during setup
• Portable installation allows running from USB drives
• Includes web-based DesktopServer control panel

Parallels Desktop Features

• Run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems virtually alongside macOS
• Seamless integration and usability with macOS
• Shared folders allow easy file transfer between macOS and virtual machines
• Resource optimization for improved performance
• Easy installation and setup of virtual machines
• Snapshots allow you to save and restore virtual machine state
• Travel mode to easily move virtual machines between Macs
• 3D graphics acceleration support
• Retina display support
• Touch Bar support
• Virtual printing and other peripherals

DesktopServer

• Open Source

Parallels Desktop

• free