you need to learn Virtual Machines RIGHT NOW!! (Kali Linux VM, Ubuntu, Windows)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up Virtual Machines (VMs) using VirtualBox on a Windows 10 system. You'll learn how to download and install both Kali Linux and Ubuntu as virtual machines. Virtual machines are essential tools for developers, cybersecurity professionals, and anyone wanting to experiment with different operating systems without affecting their primary setup.

Step 1: Understand Virtual Machines and Hypervisors

• What is a Virtual Machine?

  • A virtual machine is a software emulation of a physical computer. It allows you to run an operating system (OS) within another OS.

• What is a Hypervisor?

  • A hypervisor is software that creates and manages virtual machines. There are two types:
    • Type 1: Runs directly on the hardware (bare-metal).
    • Type 2: Runs on top of an existing operating system.

Step 2: Download Necessary Software

• Download VirtualBox from this link.
• Download the VirtualBox Extension Pack from this link.
• Download Kali Linux from this link.
• Download Ubuntu from this link.

Step 3: Install VirtualBox

1. Locate the downloaded VirtualBox installer.
2. Double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. After installation, open VirtualBox to ensure it runs correctly.

Step 4: Configure BIOS for 64-bit OS (if needed)

• If your system is not set up to support 64-bit VMs:
  1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F10, or DEL during startup).
  2. Look for the "Virtualization Technology" option and enable it.
  3. Save changes and exit.

Step 5: Create a Virtual Machine for Kali Linux

1. Open VirtualBox and click on "New."
2. Enter a name for your VM (e.g., Kali Linux) and select the type as "Linux" and version as "Debian (64-bit)."
3. Allocate memory (RAM) - a minimum of 2 GB is recommended.
4. Choose to create a virtual hard disk:
   • Select VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).
   • Choose dynamically allocated storage.
   • Set the disk size (20 GB or more is recommended).
5. Click "Create" to finalize the VM setup.

Step 6: Install Kali Linux on the VM

1. With the Kali Linux VM selected, click on "Settings."
2. Go to the "Storage" section and click on the empty disc under "Controller: IDE."
3. Click on the disc icon on the right, select "Choose a disk file," and locate the downloaded Kali Linux ISO.
4. Click "OK" to save settings.
5. Start the VM and follow the installation prompts to install Kali Linux.

Step 7: Create a Virtual Machine for Ubuntu

1. Repeat the steps from Step 5 to create a new VM for Ubuntu.
   • Name it "Ubuntu" and select "Linux" and "Ubuntu (64-bit)."
2. Allocate memory and create a virtual hard disk similarly.
3. In the "Storage" settings, load the Ubuntu ISO as you did for Kali Linux.
4. Start the VM and follow the Ubuntu installation prompts.

Step 8: Tips and Tricks for Using VirtualBox

• Snapshots: Consider taking snapshots of your VMs after significant changes or installations. This allows you to revert back if needed.
• Networking: Configure your network settings if you want the VM to connect to the internet or communicate with other devices.
• Shared Folders: Set up shared folders between your host OS and VMs for easy file transfer.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up Kali Linux and Ubuntu as virtual machines using VirtualBox. Virtual machines are powerful tools for testing, learning, and development. As a next step, explore different configurations and tools within your VMs to enhance your experience and skills. Don't hesitate to join communities for support and additional resources!