Install Ubuntu Server on Windows with VirtualBox

Operating System Intermediate 40 minutes

Summary

This tutorial guides you through installing Ubuntu Server as a virtual machine on a Windows PC using VirtualBox. You'll learn how to download Ubuntu Server, set up VirtualBox, and configure your virtual machine for a headless or command-line server environment.

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.

Bridged Adapter: A VirtualBox network mode that allows the VM to appear as a separate device on your network.

Headless: A server running without a graphical interface (command-line only).

Prerequisites

Windows PC (Windows 10/11 recommended)
Internet connection
At least 2GB RAM (4GB+ recommended)
At least 20GB free disk space
Administrator privileges on Windows

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Download Ubuntu Server ISO

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

https://ubuntu.com/download/server

Why this works: You'll need this ISO file to install Ubuntu Server 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 Server', set Type to 'Linux', and Version to 'Ubuntu (64-bit)'.

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

Step 4

Configure VM Memory and Storage

Allocate at least 2GB RAM (4GB+ recommended) and create a virtual hard disk of at least 20GB (VDI, dynamically allocated).

Why this works: Ensures Ubuntu Server runs smoothly.

Step 5

Attach Ubuntu Server ISO to VM

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

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

Step 6

Set Network to Bridged Adapter (Optional)

For easier SSH access, set the VM's network to Bridged Adapter in Network settings.

Why this works: Allows your VM to get an IP address on your local network.

Step 7

Start the Virtual Machine

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

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

Step 8

Install Ubuntu Server

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

Why this works: Standard Ubuntu Server installation process.

Step 9

Create User Account and Set Hostname

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

Why this works: Required for Ubuntu login and network identification.

Step 10

Configure SSH (Recommended)

Enable OpenSSH server during installation for remote access.

Why this works: Allows you to SSH into your server from your Windows host or other devices.

Step 11

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 12

Log in to Ubuntu Server

Use your username and password to log in to the command-line interface.

Why this works: You now have a working Ubuntu Server VM.

Step 13

(Optional) SSH from Windows Host

Use an SSH client (like PuTTY) to connect to your VM's IP address.

Why this works: Manage your server from Windows without using the VirtualBox window.

Step 14

Ubuntu Server Ready!

You can now use Ubuntu Server inside Windows via VirtualBox for development, testing, or learning.

Why this works: Your headless server environment is ready!

Common Issues & Solutions

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

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

Problem: Can't install Ubuntu Server
Solution: Ensure you have started the VM and mounted the Server ISO image.

Problem: No network connectivity in 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 Server on your Windows PC using VirtualBox. This setup is perfect for development, testing, or learning Linux server administration without modifying your main system.