Running windows programs, files, and apps (exe files) on your Mac
The popular choices for running Windows files and applications (exe files) on an Apple computer running Leopard 10.5 include Parallels, Crossover, and Boot Camp. Boot Camp is included with Leopards install DVD’s, while the other two must be purchased. All three allow you to run Windows apps in very different ways. Boot Camp relies on the user choosing which operating system they would like to use upon booting there Mac (i.e. OS X vs. Vista). Parallels allows the user to run a ‘virtual’ copy of Windows WHILE running OS X. Crossover allows the user to launch programs that would normally require a Windows environment, without actually needing to install Windows. However the big con on all three of these solutions is they cost money.
Enter Darwine, a small program based on the Wine distribution (Which is actually what the aforementioned Crossover is based upon too). Darwine allows you to run many Windows application files without having to install an entire Windows operating system on your PC. This saves time and space, and will still allow you to run many Windows applications by simply double-clicking them.
How To Install Darwine And Run Windows Apps On Your Mac
- Step 1 : Download the latest unofficial distribution of Darwine by visiting the website here, or clicking the direct link here
- Step 2 : Install Darwine by dragging the Darwine folder to your Applications folder
- Step 3 : You’ll notice the exe file you were previously trying to open now has the ‘Darwine’ icon instead of a blank page. Simply double click your file to launch it, inside the Darwine environment.
Darwine will only work for Intel Mac computers.
