How to Install Ubuntu on VirtualBox 6.1
If you are looking to explore the world of Linux without committing to a full installation on your physical machine, VirtualBox offers a convenient way to set up virtual machines. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to install Ubuntu 20.04 on VirtualBox 6.1.
Step 1: Download VirtualBox and Ubuntu ISO
Start by downloading the latest version of VirtualBox from the official website. Once VirtualBox is installed, you will need to download the Ubuntu 20.04 ISO file from the Ubuntu website. Make sure you select the correct architecture based on your system requirements, whether it is 32-bit or 64-bit.
Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine
Open VirtualBox and click on ‘New’ to create a new virtual machine. Follow the on-screen instructions to set the name, type (Linux), and version (Ubuntu 64-bit) of your virtual machine. Allocate the desired amount of RAM and choose to create a new virtual hard disk.
Step 3: Configure Virtual Machine Settings
Before starting the installation, go to the ‘Settings’ of the virtual machine. Under ‘System’, navigate to the ‘Processor’ tab and adjust the number of CPUs as needed. Then, under ‘Storage’, mount the Ubuntu ISO file by adding it to the virtual optical drive.
Step 4: Install Ubuntu on VirtualBox
Start the virtual machine and proceed with the installation of Ubuntu. Follow the on-screen prompts to select the language, keyboard layout, and disk partitioning options. Once the installation is complete, remove the ISO file from the virtual drive and restart the virtual machine.
Step 5: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions
To enhance the virtual machine’s performance and usability, it is recommended to install VirtualBox Guest Additions. This package provides additional features such as seamless mouse integration, shared folders, and better display settings. To install Guest Additions, go to the ‘Devices’ menu in VirtualBox and choose ‘Insert Guest Additions CD image.’
Step 6: Enjoy Your Ubuntu Virtual Machine
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ubuntu 20.04 on VirtualBox 6.1. Feel free to explore the Ubuntu desktop environment and customize it to your liking. VirtualBox allows you to run multiple virtual machines simultaneously, making it a versatile tool for testing different operating systems and applications.
Conclusion
Installing Ubuntu on VirtualBox is a great way to experiment with Linux without affecting your primary operating system. By following these steps, you can easily create a virtual machine and experience the benefits of Ubuntu in a safe and isolated environment. Have fun exploring the world of open-source software!