parallels-tools.exe

What is parallels-tools.exe?

parallels-tools.exe is the executable component of Parallels Tools, the integration suite installed inside a Windows virtual machine running on Parallels Desktop. It enables drivers, clipboard sharing, drag-and-drop, and other guest-host features to keep the VM and the host closely connected.

Parallels Tools runs as a collection of services and processes inside the VM to enable host-guest integration, including mouse synchronization, video drivers, and file sharing. It starts with the VM and adapts resource use to feature activity.

Types of Parallels Tools Processes

• Driver Service: Provides optimized graphics and device drivers for the VM
• Integration Service: Handles clipboard, drag-and-drop, and window synchronization
• Clipboard Service: Manages clipboard data between host and guest
• Shared Folders Service: Enables access to host file systems from the VM
• Time Sync Service: Keeps guest clock aligned with the host
• UI Helper: Background helpers for Parallels Tools UI features

Is parallels-tools.exe Safe?

Yes, parallels-tools.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file installed by Parallels Tools from official sources.

Is parallels-tools.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real parallels-tools.exe is NOT a virus. Malware can masquerade with similar names to trick users.

How to Tell if parallels-tools.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Parallels\Parallels Tools\Parallels Tools.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Parallels\Parallels Tools\Parallels Tools.exe. Other locations are suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show "Parallels International GmbH".
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is low to moderate CPU and memory when the VM is idle; spikes during integration tasks may occur.
4. Behavior: Parallels Tools should primarily run inside a VM with Parallels Desktop; persistent activity outside a VM is a red flag.

Why Is parallels-tools.exe Running on My PC?

parallels-tools.exe runs to support the Parallels Tools suite, which enables host-guest features and optimizes VM performance. It may run as background services even when the VM is not actively used for tasks.

Reasons it's running:

• Active VM Integration: Parallels Tools is actively providing clipboard, drag-and-drop, and device integration for the running VM.
• Background Services: Background components maintain file sharing, time sync, and driver updates between host and guest.
• Startup and Auto-Launch: Parallels Tools may start automatically with the VM or at host startup to ensure quick VM readiness.
• Time Synchronization: Time sync ensures guest clock matches the macOS host to avoid drift in timestamps and scheduling.
• Shared Resources Monitoring: Parallels Tools monitors shared folders and resources to keep permissions and mappings up to date.

Can I Disable or Remove parallels-tools.exe?

Yes, you can disable parallels-tools.exe. Disabling will turn off host-guest features like clipboard sharing and drag-and-drop; you can still operate the VM, but integration features will be lost.

How to Stop parallels-tools.exe

• End Parallels Tools Processes: Open Task Manager in Windows and end processes named Parallels Tools related
• Disable Startup: In Task Manager > Startup tab, disable Parallels Tools entry
• Stop Parallels Tools Service: Run services.msc, locate Parallels Tools Service, and Stop
• Disable Integration Features: In Parallels Desktop, disable Shared Folders and Clipboard integration for the VM
• Uninstall Parallels Tools: From Windows: Add or remove programs -> Parallels Tools -> Uninstall; or reinstall Parallels Tools later if needed

How to Uninstall Parallels Tools

• ✔ In Windows, open Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program > Parallels Tools > Uninstall
• ✔ In Parallels Desktop for macOS, use Actions > Reinstall Parallels Tools to repair; or choose Remove Parallels Tools if available
• ✔ Restart the VM after uninstall

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If parallels-tools.exe is consuming excessive resources, it typically involves active integration tasks, drivers, or misconfigured settings.

Common Causes & Solutions

• Active integration tasks with many devices: Limit VM features or close heavy devices; ensure only necessary features are enabled
• Outdated Parallels Tools: Update Parallels Tools to match the Parallels Desktop version
• Corrupted or stale drivers: Reinstall Parallels Tools to repair drivers and services
• Background file sharing: Pause or limit Shared Folders, reconfigure mappings
• Software conflicts: Disable conflicting software such as other virtualization utilities
• Malware disguise: Run full system antivirus and verify digital signatures; don't ignore warnings

Related Processes