Setting Up Ubuntu Desktop as a Virtual Machine

In this guide, you will learn how to install Ubuntu Desktop as a virtual machine using Oracle VirtualBox. Running Ubuntu as a virtual machine (VM) allows you to explore its features, experiment, and perform tasks without affecting your main operating system. We’ll cover each step, from downloading the Ubuntu ISO file to configuring the VM settings in VirtualBox, making it easy to set up a secure, isolated environment for learning and testing.

Mahran Al-Zyoud
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51 steps

Ubuntu

Virtualbox

- **Virtualization Software:** Oracle VirtualBox 7.1.4 - **Host Operating System:** Windows 11 - **Guest Operating System:** Ubuntu Desktop 24.04.1 LTS - **Last Updated:** October 2024 - **Created by**: Mahran Al-Zyoud. For any improvements, corrections, or suggestions, please feel free to contact me at [mahran.alzyoud@gmail.com](mailto:mahran.alzyoud@gmail.com). Your feedback is appreciated!

**Ubuntu Desktop** is a popular, user-friendly version of the Ubuntu operating system designed for everyday use on personal computers. Based on Debian, it offers an accessible interface and a strong set of pre-installed applications, making it suitable for beginners and experienced users alike. With features like the GNOME desktop environment, Ubuntu Desktop provides a streamlined and modern user experience, including essential applications like LibreOffice, Firefox, and Thunderbird. Its Software Center offers easy access to thousands of additional apps, covering everything from productivity to entertainment. Ubuntu Desktop is widely recognized for its stability, security, and regular updates, backed by a large community and commercial support from Canonical. Its open-source nature allows users to customize their systems, install additional packages, and even modify the code. With a focus on privacy, security, and efficient system management, Ubuntu Desktop is commonly used in both personal and professional settings, making it an excellent choice for students, developers, and general users looking for a reliable and flexible operating system.

Search for "**Ubuntu download**" and then click the appropriate link.

Click "**Accept all and visit site**"

Click "**Download 24.04.1 LTS**"

Once the download has finished, open the Oracle VirtualBox Manager and click "**New**"

In steps 7 and 8, you will allocate part of your host's system resources to the virtual machine you are creating. \ I would advise allocating greater system resources to the virtual machine if you have more. You may want to give it 4096 MB of Base Memory, 2 CPUs, and 50 GB of storage.

Click "**Finish**"

Click "**Settings**"

Click "**Choose/Create a Virtual Optical Disk**"

Click "**Add**"

Navigate to the directory where you saved the downloaded **.iso** file. Select it and click "**Open**"

Click "**Choose**"

Click "**OK**"

Click "**Ubuntu**" then "**Start**"

Make sure "**Try or Install Ubuntu**" is selected and click [[Enter]]

Although you may be connecting over Wi-Fi, VirtualBox will only allow you to select "**Use wired connection**".

Click "**Restart now**"

Press **[[Enter]]**

Select "**Skip for now**" then click "**Next**"

Click "**Next**"

Click "**Finish**"