Parallels introduced version 4.0 of its virtualization solution for Mac, addressing more than 1.5 million users who run Windows, Linux and other operating systems in parallel with Mac OS X. The new version of Parallels Desktop for Mac promises to be 50% faster than the previous one, offering everything from security to backup and power saving features.

Version 4.0 introduces support for DirectX 9.0, DirectX Pixel Shader 2.0 and OpenGL 2.0, promising fast video performance, with the Adaptive Hypervisor dynamically allocating resources depending on user needs.

As Serguei Beloussov, CEO of Parallels, pointed out in a statement, version 4.0 delivers an advanced solution that is easy, fast and powerful, with industry-leading tools and utilities included at no extra cost. Furthremore, he added, the company remains committed to continuing the innovation that has resulted in Parallels Desktop for Mac, which won over 30 major awards and became a premier Windows-on-Mac virtualization product.

The virtualization software comes with more than 50 features, and includes a redesigned interface with quick access to all VMs, additional Screenview modes, Clips for screenshots, Speech Recognition, Security Manager, Safe Mode, Shut Down Mode and Over 45 Supported Guest OSs.

Desktop 4.0 for Mac also focuses on two major issues, security and backup. Parallel explained that for an extra $175, users can get Parallels internet Security powered by Kaspersky anti-virus, firewall, recovery, filtering and identity protection, as well as Acronis True Image Home backup and Acronis Disk Director Suite.

Parallel announced the availability of Desktop 4.0 for Mac in English for $79.99, with versions in Chinese, Czech, French, German, Hungarian, Japanese, Spanish, Polish and Russian also coming up. Users can also test it for free for 15 days.