If you're looking to run Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution, on your Windows 11 machine without altering your existing setup, installing it in a VirtualBox virtual machine is a great option. VirtualBox is a free and widely-used virtualization software that allows you to create and run virtual machines on your Windows 11 system. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of installing Ubuntu within VirtualBox.
Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox
1. Go to the [VirtualBox download page](https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads).
2. Download the appropriate version for Windows hosts.
3. Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install VirtualBox on your Windows 11 system.
Step 2: Download Ubuntu ISO Image
1. Go to the [Ubuntu download page](https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop).
2. Download the latest version of Ubuntu Desktop for your system. Choose the appropriate architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) based on your hardware.
Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox
1. Open VirtualBox.
2. Click on the "New" button to create a new virtual machine.
3. Enter a name for your virtual machine (e.g., Ubuntu), choose "Linux" as the type, and select "Ubuntu" as the version. Click "Next."
4. Allocate memory (RAM) to the virtual machine. It's recommended to allocate at least 2GB or more for a smooth experience. Click "Next."
5. Choose to create a virtual hard disk now and click "Create."
6. Select the hard disk file type. The default VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) is usually fine. Click "Next."
7. Choose between dynamically allocated or fixed size storage. Dynamic allocation allows the virtual hard disk to grow as needed, while fixed size allocates the specified amount of space immediately. Click "Next."
8. Specify the size for the virtual hard disk. A minimum of 25GB is recommended for a standard Ubuntu installation. Click "Create."
Step 4: Configure Virtual Machine Settings
1. With the virtual machine selected, click on "Settings."
2. In the settings window, navigate to "Storage."
3. In the Storage Tree, click on the empty disk icon (under the Controller: IDE section).
4. Click on the disk icon next to "Optical Drive" and choose "Choose a disk file."
5. Select the Ubuntu ISO image you downloaded earlier and click "Open."
6. Click "OK" to close the Settings window.
Step 5: Install Ubuntu
1. Start the virtual machine by clicking "Start" in VirtualBox.
2. The Ubuntu installer will boot from the ISO image. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu on the virtual machine.
3. During the installation, you'll be prompted to choose language, keyboard layout, time zone, and create a user account. Follow the prompts accordingly.
4. When prompted to select installation type, choose "Erase disk and install Ubuntu" for a standard installation.
5. Complete the installation process by following the remaining prompts.
Step 6: Run Ubuntu in VirtualBox
1. Once the installation is complete, remove the ISO image from the virtual optical drive:
- Shut down the virtual machine (if it's not already).
- In VirtualBox, go to "Settings" for the virtual machine.
- Navigate to "Storage," select the ISO image under "Controller: IDE," and click the disk icon with the red minus to remove it.
2. Start the virtual machine. You should now boot into the installed Ubuntu system.
Congratulations! You've successfully installed Ubuntu within a VirtualBox virtual machine on your Windows 11 system. You can now enjoy running Ubuntu alongside your Windows 11 installation without any interference.
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