How to share files between Mac and Windows
Running Windows on a Mac is only useful when your files move easily. Here are the simplest ways with WinDock and WinDock EXE.
With WinDock (Windows 11 virtual machine)
- Mac folder as a drive: the Mac folder you choose appears in File Explorer as the Download(Mac) drive. Files you save there are immediately on your Mac.
- Drag and drop: drag files from Finder into the Windows window. They are copied into the WinDock Drop folder; existing files are never overwritten.
- Clipboard: copy text on one side and paste it on the other.
- External drives: authorize an external folder in WinDock settings to open it from Windows.
With WinDock EXE (no Windows)
- Your Downloads folder is drive D: in every program, and you can add more folders in Settings.
- Drag a Mac file onto a program, or use Open File, to open it.
- Copy and paste text between programs and macOS.
Keep your files safe
- Share only the folders you need.
- Windows programs can read and change files in shared folders — keep backups of important files.
- Keep external drives connected while Windows uses them.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drag files from Windows back to the Mac?
Save or copy them into the shared Mac folder (the Download(Mac) drive) and they appear on your Mac immediately.
Can I drag a whole folder?
Drag-and-drop copies files. To work with a folder, share it or place it inside the shared Mac folder.
WinDock
WinDock creates and runs a Windows 11 ARM virtual machine for you. Choose a Windows ISO from Microsoft and WinDock handles the rest — the virtual machine, Windows Setup, the display driver and the connection to your Mac files.