How to Install Linux VM on VirtualBox

Virtualization has become an integral part of modern computing, allowing users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine. VirtualBox, a powerful and open-source virtualization software, provides a user-friendly platform for creating and managing virtual machines (VMs). In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing a Linux VM on VirtualBox, step by step.

1. Download and Install VirtualBox:
   The first step is to download and install VirtualBox on your host machine. Head over to the official VirtualBox website (https://www.virtualbox.org/) and download the version compatible with your operating system. Follow the installation instructions provided by the setup wizard to complete the installation.

2. Download a Linux Distribution ISO:
   Before creating a VM, you'll need a Linux distribution ISO file. Visit the official website of your preferred Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian) and download the ISO file. Save it to a location on your host machine where you can easily access it.

3. Open VirtualBox and Create a New VM:

   • Launch VirtualBox and click on the "New" button in the toolbar.
   • Enter a name for your VM and select "Linux" as the type and the version that matches your chosen distribution.
   • Set the memory (RAM) size for your VM. It's recommended to allocate at least 1 GB for a smooth experience.

4. Create a Virtual Hard Disk:

   • In the VM creation wizard, choose "Create a virtual hard disk now" and click "Create."
   • Select the hard disk file type. The default VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) is suitable for most users.
   • Choose between a dynamically allocated or fixed-size hard disk. The former consumes only as much space as the VM uses, while the latter allocates the entire specified size upfront.

5. Allocate Hard Disk Space:

   • Specify the size of the virtual hard disk. A minimum of 25 GB is recommended for a standard Linux installation.
   • Click "Create" to finalize the virtual hard disk setup.

6. Mount Linux ISO and Install the OS:

   • With the VM selected, click "Settings," then go to the "System" tab.
   • In the "Boot Order" section, move "Optical" to the top and select "Live CD/DVD."
   • Go to the "Storage" tab, select "Empty" under "Controller: IDE," and click on the disk icon next to "Optical Drive."
   • Choose "Choose a disk file" and select the Linux ISO you downloaded.
   • Start the VM, and the Linux installation process should begin.

7. Follow the Linux Installation Wizard:

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to install Linux on the virtual machine.
   • Set your language, time zone, keyboard layout, and create a user account.

8. Complete the Installation:

   • Once the installation is complete, eject the virtual disk from the VM.
   • Restart the VM, and you should now have a fully functional Linux operating system running on VirtualBox.

9. Install VirtualBox Guest Additions:

   • In the running VM, go to the "Devices" menu in the VirtualBox window and select "Insert Guest Additions CD image."
   • Open a terminal in the VM and run the installation script from the mounted CD: sudo sh /media/cdrom/VBoxLinuxAdditions.run.
   • Reboot the VM for the changes to take effect.