Windows apps on OSX without Windows?

[macstatic]

Is it possible to run Windows apps without installing Microsoft Windows?
I'm asking because I need to run a couple of simple and small Windows utility programs (.bat and .exe files) but have otherwise no need for Windows.

I know about Wine, but believe it only runs certain pre-defined Windows software (and the software in question isn't found on their list over compatible software). WinOnX seems to be a similar app, though I'm not sure if it works the same way (they also have a compatibility database, so perhaps it also only works with a pre-defined list of Windows software)

So which options do I have if I don't want to buy Windows? (and please don't point me to some shady download sites as I want to do this legaly).

 

[maflynn]

Wine is you're only solution.

You can run windows within OS X, via Parallels or Vmware but you still need a copy of windows to do that.

 

[dzejms]

Try http://www.codeweavers.com/products/

 

[maflynn]

Try http://www.codeweavers.com/products/

That's just WINE and OP already mentioned that's not a viable solution.

 

[dzejms]

That's just WINE and OP already mentioned that's not a viable solution.

Yes, i know. Either Crossover or wine we'll let him run not only predefined apps.

 

[macstatic]

So it can run software that isn't listed on the Wine site?

Update: I just came across this page explaining how to run a Wine version called Wineskin Winery and it worked (more or less)!

 

[dzejms]

So it can run software that isn't listed on the Wine site?

Of course.

 

[brdeveloper]

So it can run software that isn't listed on the Wine site?

Update: I just came across this page explaining how to run a Wine version called Wineskin Winery and it worked (more or less)!

I have Crossover installed for years. It runs some selected apps, even some apps not listed as supported. However, I think you didn't count on it. Buy only if the desired app is listed as supported, otherwise it can be a waste of money.