How to Create and Configure a Virtual Machine in VirtualBox

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

VirtualBoxVMVirtual MachineConfigurationSetupBeginnerSoftwareOperating System

VirtualBox is a powerful tool created by Oracle that allows users to create and manage virtual machines on their computers. This means you can run different operating systems on your computer without changing your primary operating system. This is especially useful for software testing, development, handling legacy applications, or using software that is only compatible with certain versions of operating systems.

In this lengthy guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create and configure a virtual machine in VirtualBox. Whether you're a beginner or you just need a refresher, this guide will help you navigate each step involved in setting up your virtual machine.

1. Preparing for virtualization

Before you start creating virtual machines, you need to make sure your hardware and software environment is ready for virtualization. Here are the basic requirements:

• A computer with a modern CPU that supports virtualization (Intel VT-x or AMD-V).
• You must have administrator privileges on your computer to install and run VirtualBox.
• Download and install VirtualBox from the official website. Make sure you are using a version compatible with your host operating system.
• An installation file for the operating system you want to install on the virtual machine, such as an ISO image or bootable disk.

Checking virtualization support

To use VirtualBox effectively, your CPU must support virtualization technology, and it must be enabled in your BIOS settings.

1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS setup. The key to access it usually appears on the initial boot screen, typically: F2, F10, DEL, or ESC.
2. Navigate through the BIOS menu to find the settings related to virtualization. This is often found under 'Advanced', 'CPU Configuration', or similarly named sections.
3. Make sure virtualization is enabled.
4. Save the changes and exit BIOS setup to re-boot into your operating system.

2. Installing VirtualBox

Go to the official VirtualBox website and download the installation package for your operating system.

1. Choose the correct installer based on your host operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, or Solaris).
2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions. On Windows, it's the usual click-through installation; just accept the default options.
3. If your operating system prompts, allow VirtualBox to install necessary drivers and network components.
4. Once installed, launch VirtualBox, which will open the main interface.

3. Creating a virtual machine

Once VirtualBox is installed, you can now create your virtual machine. Follow these steps:

1. Open VirtualBox and click the “New” button to begin the process of creating a new virtual machine. This button is usually located in the upper-left corner of the window.
2. Enter a name for your virtual machine. You can choose a descriptive name, such as “Test_VM” or “Ubuntu_Test”.
3. Select the type and version of the operating system you want to install. Select 'Linux', 'Windows' or 'Mac OS' etc. from the dropdown menu. The version should correspond to the actual version of the OS, such as Windows 10 (64-bit).
4. Click “Next” to proceed to the memory allocation screen.

Memory allocation

1. Determine the amount of RAM to allocate to your virtual machine. It is generally recommended to allocate between 25% and 50% of your actual system RAM to ensure good performance. Enter the desired amount or use the slider to set it.
2. Click “Next” to proceed.

Creating a virtual hard disk

VirtualBox allows you to create a virtual hard disk where the guest operating system will be installed.

1. Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click “Create.”
2. Select the hard disk file type. 'VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image)' is usually recommended for VirtualBox users.
3. Decide between 'dynamically allocated' and 'fixed size'.
• Dynamically allocated: It takes up space as the space on your physical drive fills up. Less space is required initially but may grow over time.
• Fixed size: This takes up space on your physical drive immediately. This is faster because it allocates all the space upfront, but it may waste some space if you don't use all of it.
4. Set how much space your virtual machine will be able to use. A common starting point for modern operating systems might be around 20 GB, but this can vary widely depending on the guest OS and your needs.
5. Click “Create” to finish the initial virtual machine setup.

4. Configuring the virtual machine

After the virtual machine is created, further configuration may depend on the specific needs of your virtualized environment. Some of these settings can increase the performance and effectiveness of your virtual machine.

Checking the general settings

1. After selecting the virtual machine, click on “Settings”.
2. Under the “General” tab, review the name, type, and version identification. Remember, incorrect settings here can cause problems with the installation or performance of your guest OS.

Adjusting system settings

1. In the “System” tab, you can fine-tune other settings such as the base memory allocation, number of processors, and boot order.
2. Processors: For most tasks, allocating one or two processors should be sufficient, but you must balance this allocation with the needs of your host system.
3. Acceleration: Make sure that hardware virtualization options are enabled (for example, VT-x and nested paging).
4. Check and adjust other settings such as motherboard specifications. Make sure only the necessary settings are enabled to reduce overhead.

Setting display options

1. Go to the “Display” tab. Here, you can set the video memory, enable 3D acceleration if needed, and adjust scaling settings for the best display experience.
2. There is a limit to the amount of video memory, which is usually tied to your graphics card. Set it taking into account the needs of the guest OS and the applications you run.

Storage configuration

The “Storage” tab is where you handle virtual storage devices, including attaching ISO files to virtual CD/DVD drives:

1. Go to the “Storage” tab.
2. In the Controllers section, you will see an empty optical drive marked with a disc icon. Click on it.
3. Select “Choose disc file” or “Insert optical disc from your host drive” to add the installation media.
4. This is important: The ISO must be attached correctly in order to install your OS.

Network configuration

1. Open the “Network” tab.
2. By default, the network adapter is set to NAT (Network Address Translation), allowing basic internet access. Depending on your use case, you can opt for a "Bridged Adapter" if you want the virtual machine to behave as part of your local network.
3. Advanced settings can be configured depending on your networking needs. Find options for port forwarding and adapter types if needed.

5. Installing the guest OS

After configuration, it's time to install the guest operating system. The steps may vary depending on the OS you use, but generally, the sequence is as follows:

1. Start the virtual machine: In VirtualBox, select your virtual machine and click “Start”.
2. Your VM should boot from the virtual optical drive that contains your installation media.
3. Follow the operating system's installation wizard. This may include selecting disk partitions, language, time zone, specifying user accounts, and entering product keys for licensed software.
4. Once you complete the installation, the virtual machine will usually restart.

Congratulations, your guest OS should now be running on your virtual machine!

Installing VirtualBox Guest Additions

For enhanced functionality, improved performance, and better integration, you should install Guest Additions:

1. With the guest operating system running, click the "Devices" menu in the VirtualBox window.
2. Select “Insert Guest Edition CD image…”
3. The guest operating system should recognize the CD and offer to run the installer.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and then reboot the virtual machine.

Guest additions help with clipboard sharing, folder sharing, and improved video graphics. They can improve your experience when using a VM in VirtualBox.

6. Post-setup configuration

After installing the guest OS, you may need some additional configuration.

• Update the guest OS using the update systems available within the OS to ensure it is running the latest security patches.
• If you plan to use your virtual machine for Internet browsing or downloading files, consider installing an antivirus or firewall on it.
• Adjust power settings to prevent unnecessary suspensions or shutdowns, which may kill running tasks.
• Eliminate any pending hardware or software incompatibilities by periodically checking for new VirtualBox versions or updates to VirtualBox extensions.

Conclusion

Creating and configuring virtual machines in VirtualBox can be a highly beneficial skill in a variety of fields related to IT and software development. With VirtualBox, you have a flexible and powerful platform that can host multiple operating systems on the same hardware. By following the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you will be well equipped to explore, learn, and experiment in virtualized environments, expanding your technical capabilities while minimizing risk. Always remember to allocate resources based on actual needs, and keep your VirtualBox and virtual machines updated to the latest versions to improve security and stability.

  Share This Article

If you find anything wrong with the article content, you can request an update