How To Install Linux Inside Windows [Virtual Box]

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing Linux inside Windows using Oracle VirtualBox. This method allows you to run Linux as if it were a regular Windows application, providing a safe and convenient way to explore Linux without altering your existing Windows setup.

Step 1: Download and Install Oracle VirtualBox

1. Visit the VirtualBox website.
2. Download the latest version of VirtualBox for Windows.
3. Run the downloaded installer and follow these steps:
   • Accept the license agreement.
   • Choose your installation options (you can keep defaults).
   • Click "Install" to begin the installation process.
   • If prompted, allow the installation to proceed with necessary permissions.
4. Once installed, launch Oracle VirtualBox.

Step 2: Download a Linux ISO File

1. Choose a Linux distribution you want to try (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, or Linux Mint).
2. Visit the distribution's official website and download the ISO file.
   • Ensure you download the correct version (32-bit or 64-bit) based on your system and VirtualBox settings.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. In VirtualBox, click on "New" to create a new virtual machine.
2. Fill in the following details:
   • Name: Enter a name for your virtual machine (e.g., "Ubuntu").
   • Type: Select "Linux."
   • Version: Choose the appropriate version (e.g., "Ubuntu (64-bit)").
3. Click "Next" to proceed.

Step 4: Allocate Memory

1. Specify the amount of RAM you want to allocate to the virtual machine.
   • A minimum of 2048 MB is recommended for a smoother experience.
2. Click "Next."

Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

1. Choose "Create a virtual hard disk now" and click "Create."
2. Select the hard disk file type. The default (VDI) is generally fine, so click "Next."
3. Choose between dynamically allocated or fixed size:
   • Dynamically allocated allows the disk to grow as needed.
   • Fixed size may offer better performance.
4. Specify the size of the virtual hard disk (at least 20 GB is recommended).
5. Click "Create" to finish setting up your virtual machine.

Step 6: Configure Virtual Machine Settings

1. Select your virtual machine and click on "Settings."
2. Go to the "Storage" tab:
   • Click on "Empty" under "Controller: IDE."
   • On the right, click the disk icon and choose "Choose a disk file."
   • Select the Linux ISO file you downloaded earlier.
3. Ensure other settings (like network adapter) are set to default unless specific configurations are needed.

Step 7: Start the Virtual Machine

1. Click the "Start" button in VirtualBox to boot your virtual machine.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to install Linux:
   • Choose "Try" or "Install" based on your preference.
   • Complete the installation process by following the setup wizard.

Step 8: Finalize Installation

1. Once the installation is complete, reboot your virtual machine.
2. If prompted to remove the installation media, go back to VirtualBox settings, and remove the ISO from the storage settings.
3. Your virtual machine will now boot into Linux.

Conclusion

You have successfully installed Linux inside Windows using Oracle VirtualBox. This setup allows you to explore Linux environments without making significant changes to your Windows operating system. Feel free to experiment with your new Linux setup, and consider exploring additional features and tools available in VirtualBox for an enhanced experience.