Citrix Alternative: 3 Reasons to Consider Parallels
September 1, 2026
Citrix has long been a leader in application and desktop delivery. But for organizations evaluating their digital workspace strategy, being the market leader does not necessarily mean it is the best fit for every environment.
As IT leaders navigate changing business requirements, infrastructure strategies, budgets, and security needs, many are taking a closer look at their options and asking an important question: Is there a Citrix alternative that can deliver the flexibility, value, and partnership they need?
Parallels is one solution worth considering.
Why Are Organizations Exploring Citrix Alternatives?
Technology decisions extend well beyond product capabilities. Organizations also need to consider how a solution fits into their existing infrastructure, how easily it can adapt as their needs change, and the level of support and partnership they receive from their technology provider.
For organizations reassessing their Citrix environment, Parallels offers an alternative approach with flexibility across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.
That flexibility can be especially valuable for organizations that are modernizing their infrastructure but are not ready—or do not need—to move everything to the cloud.
What Should You Look for in a Citrix Alternative?
Every organization's requirements are different, but there are several important considerations when evaluating an alternative to Citrix.
Flexible Deployment Options
Today's IT environments are increasingly hybrid. Organizations may have applications and workloads running across on-premises infrastructure, private and public clouds, and multiple environments.
A Citrix alternative should support that reality rather than require organizations to completely restructure their infrastructure.
Parallels can be deployed across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments, giving organizations greater flexibility to build an application and desktop delivery strategy around their specific needs.
A Partner, Not Just a Platform
The technology is only part of the equation.
When evaluating a Citrix alternative, organizations should consider the experience of working with the provider, too. Responsiveness, collaboration, flexibility, and the ability to work through changing requirements can have a significant impact on the overall value of a technology investment.
For organizations looking for a more collaborative approach, having a partner that is willing to understand their environment and work with them to find the right solution can make a meaningful difference.
Value That Goes Beyond the Technology
Cost is an important consideration in any technology decision, but value encompasses more than the initial price.
Organizations should evaluate the complete investment, including licensing, deployment, management, support, and the flexibility to adapt as their needs evolve.
Parallels gives organizations another option to consider when evaluating how to balance technology requirements with business priorities and long-term value.
Interested in taking a closer look at the Parallels approach to application and desktop delivery? Explore this overview from Parallels.
Is It Time to Consider a Citrix Alternative?
There is no single solution that is right for every organization. Citrix remains an established platform with capabilities that continue to serve many businesses.
However, if your organization is facing challenges with its current Citrix environment, preparing for a renewal, reassessing costs, or looking for greater flexibility and support, it may be time to explore what else is available.
Parallels offers organizations another path for application and desktop delivery, with options designed to support on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.
Want to learn more?
Watch the Video: Citrix vs. Parallels
In our latest video, ProActive takes a closer look at the Citrix and Parallels conversation and explores three key reasons organizations should consider making the switch to Parallels.
Watch the video to hear ProActive's perspective and learn what to consider when evaluating a Citrix alternative for your organization.
If you're evaluating your Citrix environment or exploring alternatives, contact ProActive Solutions to discuss your requirements and determine what approach makes the most sense for your organization.
