Hosted by site sponsor WebMate.
Windows on Mac Q&A - Revised March 22, 2010
To be notified of new Q&As, sign up for EveryMac.com's bimonthly email list.
Is it legal to run Windows on the Mac?
Yes, provided that one purchases the copy of Windows that is installed.
This was a question asked more frequently when creative hackers first made it possible to run Windows on the Intel-based Macs, but yes, it is legal to run Windows on Intel-based Macs using the open-source "XOM hack", Apple's Boot Camp, and software programs from Parallels, VMWare, and others.
Does Apple pre-install Windows on Intel-based Macs?
Apple does not pre-install Windows on Intel-based Macs, although some Apple Authorized Resellers may offer to do so on your behalf.
Does Apple support running Windows on the Mac? Does Microsoft?
For the beta version of Boot Camp, Apple provided no support for Boot Camp or Microsoft Windows. For the final version of Boot Camp 2.0 provided with MacOS X 10.5 "Leopard", the company notes:
Apple does not provide technical phone support for installing, using, or recovering Microsoft Windows. Support is available for using Boot Camp Setup Assistant, as well as installing or restoring Boot Camp software while booted into Windows. Support articles and discussions may also be available on Apple's support website.
Apple maintains the same level of support for Boot Camp 3.x, provided with MacOS X 10.6 "Snow Leopard" as well.
Microsoft will provide the same level of technical support for any other copy of Windows purchased retail provided that you are able to successfully install Windows using Boot Camp.
Where can I buy Windows for an Intel-based Mac?
You cannot purchase a commercial version of Windows specifically to install on an Intel-based Mac, but you can purchase a retail copy of Windows and install the operating system using any of the programs available.
Permalink | Report an Error/Typo | Sign Up for Site Update Notices
Established in 1996, EveryMac.com has been created by experts with decades of experience with Apple hardware. EveryMac.com includes, and always has included, original research incorporating detailed, hands-on inspection of packaging, computers, and devices as well as extensive real-world use. All information is provided in good faith, but no website or person is perfect. Accordingly, EveryMac.com is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind whatsoever. EveryMac.com, and the authors thereof, shall not be held responsible or liable, under any circumstances, for any damages resulting from the use or inability to use the information within. For complete disclaimer and copyright information please read and understand the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy before using EveryMac.com. Copying, scraping, or use of any content without expressed permission is not allowed, although links to any page are welcomed and appreciated.