VirtualBox is a powerful open-source virtualization software that allows you to run multiple operating systems on your Windows machine simultaneously. Whether you want to test a new OS, develop in a different environment, or enhance security through sandboxing, VirtualBox is a great choice.

Prerequisites

• Installer file for Virtual box.(.exe)
• Download it from the (official website).
• Select the Windows hosts option to download the .exe installer.

Step 1: Install VirtualBox#

1. Run the Installer
   • Double-click the downloaded .exe file to start the installation process.
   • If prompted by the User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow the installation.
2. Follow the Setup Wizard
   • Welcome Screen: Click Next.
   • Custom Setup: Choose the installation directory or leave it as default. Click Next.
   • Shortcut Options: Select the options for creating shortcuts and associations. Click Next.
   • Network Interface Warning: VirtualBox will install network-related components. Click Yes to proceed.
   • Ready to Install: Click Install to begin the installation.
3. Complete the Installation
   • Wait for the installation to complete.
   • Click Finish to exit the setup.

Step 2: Install VirtualBox Extension Pack (Optional)#

For additional features like USB 2.0/3.0 support, RDP, and disk encryption, you can install the VirtualBox Extension Pack:

1. Download the Extension Pack
   • On the VirtualBox (download page), find the Extension Pack and download it.
2. Install the Extension Pack
   • Open VirtualBox.
   • Go to File > Preferences > Extensions.
   • Click the + icon and select the downloaded Extension Pack.
   • Follow the prompts to install it.

Step 4: Create Your First Virtual Machine and Test the fuctionalities of Virtual box#

1. Launch VirtualBox
   • Open VirtualBox from the Start Menu or desktop shortcut.
2. Create a New Virtual Machine
   • Click New.
   • Enter a name for your VM, select the type (e.g., Linux, Windows), and version.
   • Allocate memory and create a virtual hard disk.
   • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

Step 5: Start Using VirtualBox#

• You’re now ready to install an operating system on your virtual machine. Insert a bootable ISO file or physical installation disk, and VirtualBox will handle the rest.

Troubleshooting Common Issues#

1. Kernel Driver Errors
   • Ensure Hyper-V or other virtualization software is disabled if you encounter kernel driver issues.
2. Performance Issues
   • Allocate sufficient resources (CPU, RAM) to your virtual machine without overburdening your host OS.

FAQs#

1. Is VirtualBox free to use?

   • Yes, VirtualBox is open-source and free for personal and educational use.

2. Can I install macOS on VirtualBox?

   • Yes, but it requires additional configurations due to Apple’s licensing restrictions.

3. How much RAM should I allocate to my VM?

   • This depends on the guest OS. For example, Windows 10 needs at least 4GB for smooth performance.

Conclusion

This is it! Installing VirtualBox on Windows is a straightforward process that opens up a world of possibilities for testing, development, and learning. With this guide, you can now set up and manage virtual machines effortlessly. If you have any doubts/issues/errors with the above contents, feel free to contact me. Cheers, Happy learning.