Are you looking for a way to test new software or different operating systems on your Chromebook without interfering with your current setup? Setting up a virtual machine can be the perfect solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing VirtualBox on Chromebook and creating your very first virtual machine.
What is a Virtual Machine?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of setting up a virtual machine on Chromebook, let’s take a moment to define what it is. A virtual machine is a software program that creates a simulated environment within your computer, allowing you to run an operating system or other software as if it were on a separate computer.
Why Use a Virtual Machine?
There are several reasons why you might want to set up a virtual machine. For one, it allows you to test software or operating systems without altering your current system. It can also be a great way to experiment with different configurations, without risking damage to your existing setup. Finally, virtual machines can be used to run software that is not compatible with your current operating system.
Installing VirtualBox on Chromebook
Chromebooks have become increasingly popular due to their affordability and simplicity. However, they lack the ability to run certain applications and software, which can limit their functionality. VirtualBox, an open-source virtualization software, allows you to run Windows and other operating systems on your Chromebook, thereby increasing its versatility. In this article, we will show you how to install VirtualBox on your Chromebook.
1. Enable Linux (Beta) on your Chromebook
Linux is off by default. You can turn it on any time from Settings.
- On your Chromebook, at the bottom right, select the time.
- Select Settings > Advanced > Developers.
- Next to “Linux development environment,” select Turn On.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Setup can take 10 minutes or more.
- A terminal window opens. You have a Debian 10 (Buster) environment. You can run Linux commands, install more tools using the APT package manager, and customize your shell.
2. Install VirtualBox on Linux (Beta)
1. Open Chrome browser on your Chromebook and visit VirtualBox downloads page and click the Debian 10 link. The latest VirtualBox version as of this writing is 6.1.xx. Save the installer in your Downloads folder.
2. Locate the VirtualBox installer file using your Files app. Double-click the file or rightclick to you will see an option called “Install with Linux” and click on it.
3. Click Install on the first screen. This action tells the Wizard that you want to install VirtualBox on Chromebook.
4. Once the installation it complited, you will find VirtualBox in Linux apps folder in your Launcher.
Note: If you get the error “E: dpkg was interrupted” follow the secend method.
Install VirtualBox from Repositories
1. Open a terminal, and enter the following to update the repository:
sudo apt-get update2. Download and install VirtualBox by running:
sudo apt-get install virtualbox–6.1This will install VirtualBox on your Chromebook.
Steps to Create a Virtual Machine with VirtualBox
1. Open VirtualBox
After installing VirtualBox, open the software. You will see the main interface of VirtualBox.
2. Click on “New”
Click on the “New” button to create a new virtual machine.
3. Name your virtual machine
Enter a name for your virtual machine. This name will help you identify your virtual machine later on.
4. Choose the operating system type and version
Select the operating system type and version that you want to install on your virtual machine. Make sure to choose the correct type and version to avoid compatibility issues.
5. Allocate memory
Allocate the amount of memory (RAM) you want to allocate to the virtual machine. Make sure to allocate enough memory for the operating system to run smoothly.
6. Create a virtual hard disk
Create a new virtual hard disk for your virtual machine. You can choose the file type, storage size, and location of the virtual hard disk.
7. Configure the virtual machine settings
Configure the virtual machine settings such as network, storage, display, and other options according to your needs.
8. Install the operating system
After configuring the virtual machine settings, click on “Start” to start the virtual machine. You will be prompted to select the operating system image that you want to install. Select the ISO image of the operating system.
Note: You will need to download ISO image of the operating system, Be it Ubuntu, MacOS or Windows.
9. Follow the installation process
Follow the installation process of the operating system as you would normally do on a physical computer. Once the installation is complete, your virtual machine is ready to use.
Conclusion
VirtualBox is an excellent tool that allows you to run multiple operating systems on your Chromebook. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily install VirtualBox on your Chromebook and start using it to run Windows and other operating systems. Enjoy the increased versatility and functionality that VirtualBox provides.
FAQs
Is VirtualBox free to use?
Yes, VirtualBox is free and open-source software.
Can I install VirtualBox on any Chromebook?
No, not all Chromebooks support the installation of VirtualBox. Check the model of your Chromebook if it supports Linux Beta.
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