Setting Up a Linux Virtual Machine with VirtualBox

Have you ever wanted to try out Linux without the hassle of dual-booting or erasing your own operating system? Well, you’re in luck! I’ll show you how to set up a virtual machine using a free program called VirtualBox. Let’s get started!

Getting Started with VirtualBox

Okay, let’s start by getting the program installed. There are versions of this program for different operating systems, but for now, let’s focus on getting it set up on a Windows computer. I’ll be using Windows 10 as an example.

To download the program, you can go to the website and find the version that’s compatible with your operating system. The best part is that it’s completely free to download!

Once you’ve downloaded the program, you’ll need to go through the installation process. Just follow the instructions in the setup wizard, and you’ll have it installed in no time.

Now that the program is installed, it’s time to open it up and start using it!

If you’re ready to start setting up your own virtual machine, all you have to do is press the “New” button. This will kickstart the process of creating a fresh virtual machine just for you.

When you press the button, the first thing to do is choose a name for your new virtual machine. Think of something that’s easy to remember and relates to its purpose. Then, you have to decide which type of operating system you want to use. There are different options available, like Windows, Mac, or Linux. Finally, you need to choose the specific version of the operating system you want, such as Ubuntu or Windows 10.

When you’re done making your decision, hit Next. The next screen, which you can see above, will prompt you to choose how much memory you want to assign to it. Usually, going with the recommended option is a safe bet, but you can assign more if you want to. Once you’ve made your choice, hit Next again.

Now, I have to tell you something important. You need to allocate some storage to the virtual machine. If this is your first time setting it up, don’t worry. I’ll guide you through the process.

Okay, let’s start. First, you’ll need to create a new virtual hard disk with the recommended size. To do this, simply press the “Create” button. Now, pay attention to the screens that come up next. It’s important that you don’t make any changes and just press “OK” for each screen.

Great! We’re one step closer to getting your virtual machine up and running. The next thing you need to do is download the ISO for your operating system. In my case, I chose Ubuntu. Lucky for you, it’s available for free! Follow this link to download it.

Once you get your hands on the ISO file, it’s time to make it work on your virtual machine. Just go ahead and click on the Settings button.

I’ll walk you through the next steps. First, let’s find the “Storage” option and click on it. Look for the Controller IDE and select it. Now, keep an eye out for the “Adds Optical Drive” button and give it a click. A prompt will appear asking you to choose a disk. Click on the “Choose Disk” button, locate the ISO file, select it, and hit OK. This will add the ISO file to your virtual machine. Easy, right?

When it comes to getting started, there’s one last thing you need to do. Just press OK on the Settings tab. And that’s it! You’re all set to begin!

So, you’re ready to embark on the journey of setting up a virtual machine and adding another operating system to your computer? Awesome! Let’s get started, shall we?

First things first, go ahead and press that magical “Start” button. Once you do that, your virtual machine will start booting up, like a well-oiled machine ready to take on the world.

Now, here’s the beauty of it all – you don’t have to deal with any complicated dual-booting or partitioning. Nope! All you have to do is dive into the Ubuntu setup wizard inside your virtual machine. It’s like stepping into a whole new world of possibilities.

And guess what? You did it! You now have another operating system right there on your computer. How cool is that? It’s like having a secret superpower tucked away.

But hey, I get it. Sometimes things can get a bit confusing or overwhelming. If you find yourself stuck or in need of some guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Leave a comment below or head over to the PCMech Forums and drop us a line. We’re here to lend a helping hand and turn your virtual machine journey into a smooth ride.