2  VirtualBox Setup and Usage

A virtual machine (VB, VirtualBox) is a simulated environment that works like a “computer inside your computer.”

2.1 🖥️ What is a VB?

  • Virtual machine: software that mimics a complete operating system using the host computer’s resources (RAM, CPU, disk).
  • It runs inside a program called a hypervisor (e.g., VirtualBox, VMware).

2.2 📌 When is it used?

  • Testing operating systems without affecting your main PC.
  • Software development and testing in isolated environments.
  • Running legacy software that no longer works on modern systems.
  • Security: analyzing suspicious files without risk.
  • Education: teaching system installation and configuration.

2.3 Steps to Set Up VirtualBox

  1. Install VirtualBox
    • Download VirtualBox from Oracle’s official website.
    • Run the installer and follow the instructions.
    • Restart your computer if necessary.
  2. Create a new virtual machine
    • Open VirtualBox and select New.
    • Assign a name and choose the operating system to install.
    • Define the amount of RAM to allocate.
  3. Configure storage
    • Create a virtual hard disk (VDI recommended).
    • Choose dynamic or fixed size depending on your needs.
    • Set the disk space (e.g., 20 GB or more).
  4. Mount the operating system
    • In the VM settings, go to Storage.
    • Add the ISO image of the operating system.
    • Save the changes.
  5. Start the virtual machine
    • Click Start.
    • The operating system will boot from the ISO.
    • Proceed with installation as if it were a physical computer.
  6. Install Guest Additions (optional but recommended)
    • Once the OS is installed, in the VirtualBox menu select: Devices → Insert Guest Additions CD image.
    • Install the add-ons to improve performance and compatibility.