Install Ubuntu Desktop on Windows with VirtualBox

Operating System Beginner 45 minutes

Summary

This tutorial guides you through installing Ubuntu Desktop as a virtual machine on a Windows PC using VirtualBox. No USB or flash drive required. You'll learn how to download Ubuntu, set up VirtualBox, and configure your virtual machine for a smooth Ubuntu experience.

Key Vocabulary

VirtualBox: A free and open-source virtualization tool for running virtual machines.

ISO Image: A file containing the complete contents of a CD/DVD, used for OS installation.

Virtual Machine (VM): A software-based computer that runs inside your main operating system.

Guest Additions: VirtualBox drivers and utilities for better integration between host and guest OS.

Snapshot: A saved state of a VM you can restore later.

Prerequisites

Windows PC (Windows 10/11 recommended)
Internet connection
At least 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
At least 25GB free disk space
Administrator privileges on Windows

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Download Ubuntu Desktop ISO

Go to the official Ubuntu website and download the latest Ubuntu Desktop ISO image.

https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop

Why this works: You'll need this ISO file to install Ubuntu in VirtualBox.

Step 2

Download and Install VirtualBox

Download VirtualBox for Windows and install it.

https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads

Why this works: VirtualBox is the virtualization software you'll use.

Step 3

Create a New Virtual Machine

Open VirtualBox and click 'New' to create a new VM. Name it 'Ubuntu', set Type to 'Linux', and Version to 'Ubuntu (64-bit)'.

Why this works: This sets up a new VM for Ubuntu.

Step 4

Configure VM Memory and Storage

Allocate at least 2GB RAM (4GB+ recommended) and create a virtual hard disk of at least 25GB (VDI, dynamically allocated).

Why this works: Ensures Ubuntu runs smoothly.

Step 5

Attach Ubuntu ISO to VM

In VM settings, go to Storage > Controller: IDE > Empty. Click the disk icon and select the Ubuntu ISO you downloaded.

Why this works: This mounts the Ubuntu installer as a virtual CD/DVD.

Step 6

Start the Virtual Machine

Click 'Start' to boot the VM. The Ubuntu installer will launch.

Why this works: You're now ready to install Ubuntu.

Step 7

Install Ubuntu Desktop

Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu. Choose your language, keyboard layout, and installation type (Normal).

Why this works: Standard Ubuntu installation process.

Step 8

Create User Account

Set your username, password, and computer name as prompted.

Why this works: Required for Ubuntu login.

Step 9

Complete Installation and Reboot VM

Once installation finishes, reboot the VM. Remove the ISO from the virtual drive when prompted.

Why this works: Prevents the installer from running again.

Step 10

Install VirtualBox Guest Additions

With Ubuntu running, go to VirtualBox menu > Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image. Follow prompts in Ubuntu to install.

Why this works: Improves performance, clipboard, and screen resizing.

Step 11

Take a Snapshot (Optional)

In VirtualBox, select your VM and click 'Take Snapshot' to save its current state.

Why this works: Allows you to restore your VM to this point later.

Step 12

Ubuntu Desktop Ready!

You can now use Ubuntu Desktop inside Windows via VirtualBox.

Why this works: Enjoy exploring Ubuntu in a virtual environment!

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: No 64-bit option in VirtualBox
Solution: Ensure virtualization is enabled in your BIOS/UEFI settings.

Problem: Ubuntu VM runs slowly
Solution: Increase RAM and CPU allocation in VM settings. Close other heavy apps on Windows.

Problem: Can't install Guest Additions
Solution: Ensure you have started the VM and mounted the Guest Additions CD image.

Problem: No internet in Ubuntu VM
Solution: Check VirtualBox network settings (NAT or Bridged Adapter).

Problem: Installer boots again after install
Solution: Remove the ISO from the virtual drive before rebooting.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ubuntu Desktop on your Windows PC using VirtualBox. This setup is perfect for testing, development, or learning Linux without modifying your main system.