Run Windows on Mac ? ?

[m3m]

I have a Mac G5 with OS 10.4.8, 2 gigs SDRAM & 250 gigs HD.  We recently had a home security system installed and it only works with WindowsXP.  I am totally out of my depth when it comes to Windows. 

Question # 1 -  if I install the system from the following web site   http://www.parallels.com/landingpage/mac/?gclid=CNrXyvbnp4kCFSLrPgodgBebvA     would it work?

Question # 2 - If the system did work and was used only to access the security system would it make me more vulnerable to viruses?

Thank you

[Neil Herber]

Parallels requires an Intel processor to work so it won't work on your G5.
http://www.parallels.com/en/products/desktop/sr/

You would probably be better off buying a second hand PC (a cheap laptop) with the OS installed rather than buying Parallels ($80 US) and Windows XP (min $149 Can). Then you would completely isolate your Mac from the PC world.

Just how are you supposed to physically connect your PC to the security system? I have never heard of such an arrangement, and I can't imagine why it would be done.

[ericssonboi]

I have a Mac G5 with OS 10.4.8, 2 gigs SDRAM & 250 gigs HD.  We recently had a home security system installed and it only works with WindowsXP.  I am totally out of my depth when it comes to Windows. 

Question # 1 -  if I install the system from the following web site   http://www.parallels.com/landingpage/mac/?gclid=CNrXyvbnp4kCFSLrPgodgBebvA     would it work?

Question # 2 - If the system did work and was used only to access the security system would it make me more vulnerable to viruses?

Thank you

Running a PPC machine.. you'll have to run an emulated version of Windows via Virtual PC.  The speeds are deathly slow.. so its not work it.

Like suggested.. its best to have a backup or second PC rather than run Virtual PC.

In order to use Parallels or Boot Camp, an Intel based machine would be required to do so.

[z-mac]

Given that your goal is to run software to manage a security system, it makes more sense to use a dedicated computer. This is a "mission critical" application. Put it on a battery back-up, too.

However, you should download a copy of Virtual PC and install Windows XP on your Mac just to become familiar with the OS. You don't want to make any mistakes with your security system.