Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS) is a commercial software product developed by Parallels International GmbH (formerly known as Parallels, Inc.). It provides application and desktop virtualization, remote access, and load balancing for enterprises and service providers. The solution enables users to deliver Windows applications and full virtual desktops to a variety of endpoint devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and HTML5 web browsers.
Key characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Parallels International GmbH |
| Initial release | 2015 (the product was rebranded from “Parallels Remote Application Server” to “Parallels RAS” in 2016) |
| Latest stable version | 23.0 (released in early 2024) |
| Operating system support | - Server side: Windows Server 2012 R2, 2016, 2019, 2022; Windows 10/11 Enterprise; Linux (CentOS, RHEL, Ubuntu) for certain components. - Client side: Windows 10/11, macOS 10.13+, Linux, iOS, Android, and HTML5 browsers. |
| Virtualization back‑ends | Integrates with Microsoft Hyper‑V, VMware vSphere, Citrix Hypervisor, and can also utilize Parallels Desktop for Windows. |
| Delivery methods | - RemoteApp (individual Windows applications) - Full remote desktops (VDI) - HTML5 web access via the Parallels RAS Client Web portal |
| Licensing model | Per‑user subscription or perpetual licenses, with optional add‑ons for secure gateway, load balancing, and advanced analytics. |
| Security features | Multi‑factor authentication, SSL/TLS encryption, network traffic tunneling via a secure gateway, and integration with Active Directory and Azure AD. |
| Management console | Centralized web‑based administration console for provisioning, monitoring, and reporting. |
| Typical use cases | - Remote work and bring‑your‑own‑device (BYOD) scenarios - Application delivery to thin clients or legacy hardware - Disaster recovery and business continuity - Service providers offering hosted virtual desktops (DaaS). |
Historical context
Parallels introduced a remote application solution in the early 2010s under the name “Parallels Remote Application Server.” The product was positioned as a cost‑effective alternative to more established solutions such as Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops and Microsoft Remote Desktop Services. In 2016, the branding was simplified to “Parallels RAS,” and subsequent versions expanded platform support and added features like HTML5 client access and enhanced security controls.
Industry reception
Independent reviews and analyst reports have generally noted Parallels RAS for its ease of deployment, comparatively low total cost of ownership, and broad device compatibility. It is frequently cited in the “mid‑range” segment of enterprise remote‑application and desktop‑delivery platforms.
References
- Parallels International GmbH, “Parallels Remote Application Server (RAS) product overview,” official product documentation, 2024.
- “Parallels RAS 23.0 Release Notes,” Parallels website, February 2024.
- IDC, “Enterprise Remote Desktop Market Landscape,” 2023. (mentions Parallels RAS among mid‑tier vendors.)
