PVM File Extension
Parallels Virtual Machine
- File Type pvm
- Developer Parallels
- Popularity
- Application Parallels Desktop
- Category Virtual Machine Files
- Format Binary
What is a PVM file?
Parallels Virtual Machine, identified by the PVM extension, is a Virtual Machine Files type and includes 56 files.
The Parallels Virtual Machine (PVM) was created by Parallels Holdings, a company that developed file format and produced 2 programs for their use.
PVM files are compatible with various operating systems, including Mac OS. If you need to open a PVM file, you can use one of 2 programs, such as Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion.
How to open a PVM file?
If you’re having difficulty opening a PVM file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.
Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with PVM files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Parallels Desktop, visit the official Parallels Holdings website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.
After successful installation, your operating system should seamlessly handle PVM files via Parallels Desktop.
Set Parallels Desktop as your default PVM viewer
Setting a default program by file type in Windows
- Right-click your PVM file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Parallels Desktop as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening PVM files.
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired PVM file to open a menu of available actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Go to the lower section of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. By default, it is set to "Recommended Programs";
- Select "All Programs" from this menu and proceed to search for Parallels Desktop. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default option.
How to edit a PVM file?
Editing PVM files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit virtual machine files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Parallels Virtual Machine programs.
List of Top PVM editors 2026
With the mentioned criteria in mind, we have assembled a selection of PVM editors.
| PVM Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parallels Desktop | Parallels Holdings | Mac OS | 4.4 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
Convert to and from PVM
When a PVM file is not easy to work with, converting it to formats like VHD, VMDK, OVF, VMX, VDI or other comparable types may help.
Converting a PVM file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.
Convert PVM to other file formats
Solving Common PVM File Challenges
PVM files may present some challenges, but most can be easily addressed with minor software tweaks. See the troubleshooting tips below for guidance.
Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged PVM file?
Open the damaged PVM file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged virtual machine files.
What are the telltale signs of a corrupt PVM file?
Corrupted PVM virtual machine files may show the following signs:
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the PVM file;
- Opening or processing the file in Parallels Desktop or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- While working with the file, error messages appear;
- Editing the archive in Parallels Desktop is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
What factors contribute to Parallels Desktop crash?
Parallels Desktop crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for Parallels Holdings products.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.