Virtualbox

Step 1: Download VirtualBox

  1. Go to the official site: https://www.virtualbox.org/
  2. Click Download
  3. Choose your platform:
    • Windows
    • macOS
    • Linux

Also download the Extension Pack (same version as VirtualBox) for extra features like USB support.

Step 2: Install VirtualBox

Windows

  1. Open the .exe installer
  2. Click Next through the setup wizard
  3. Keep default components selected
  4. Accept network warnings (it may briefly disconnect internet)
  5. Click Install → Finish

macOS

  1. Open the .dmg file
  2. Double-click the installer package
  3. Follow prompts and allow permissions in System Settings → Security & Privacy if blocked
  4. Finish installation

Linux (Ubuntu/Debian example)

sudo apt update
sudo apt install virtualbox

Step 3: Install Extension Pack

  1. Open VirtualBox
  2. Go to File → Preferences → Extensions
  3. Click + and select the downloaded Extension Pack file
  4. Accept license → Install

Step 4: Create a Virtual Machine (VM)

  1. Click New
  2. Enter:
    • Name (e.g., Ubuntu VM)
    • Type: Linux / Windows / Other
    • Version: Match your OS
  3. Click Next

Allocate Resources

  • RAM:
    • Minimum: 2 GB
    • Recommended: 4+ GB (if available)
  • CPU (under advanced settings):
    • 2 cores is a good start

Create Virtual Hard Disk

  1. Choose Create a virtual hard disk now
  2. File type: VDI (default)
  3. Storage: Dynamically allocated
  4. Size:
    • Linux: 20–30 GB
    • Windows: 50+ GB

Step 5: Install an Operating System

  1. Download an ISO file (example: Ubuntu from https://ubuntu.com/)
  2. In VirtualBox:
    • Select your VM → Settings → Storage
    • Click empty disk → choose ISO file
  3. Click Start

Follow the OS installation steps like a normal computer setup

Step 6: Install Guest Additions (Important)

This improves performance, screen resolution, and mouse integration.

  1. Start your VM
  2. In menu: Devices → Insert Guest Additions CD Image
  3. Run installer inside the VM
  4. Restart VM