Ubuntu Virtual Machine (VM) Installation on VirtualBox

Objective

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing an Ubuntu virtual machine (VM) on VirtualBox. Whether you're setting up a VM for development, testing, or cybersecurity training, this walkthrough will ensure a smooth and successful installation process. By the end of this guide, you'll have a fully functional Ubuntu VM ready for use within VirtualBox. Let's get started!

1. Download Ubuntu ISO

Visit the Ubuntu Downloads page and download the latest Ubuntu Desktop ISO or Ubuntu Server ISO if you prefer a minimal setup.

2. Create a New Virtual Machine (VM)

• Open VirtualBox and click New.

• Enter the following details:

  • Name: Ubuntu (or any name you prefer)
  • Type: Linux
  • Version: Ubuntu (64-bit)
  • Click Next

3. Allocate Resources

• Memory: Allocate at least 4 GB (4096 MB) for a smoother experience.
• Processor: Set 2 or more CPUs for better performance (depending on your system).

4. Create a Virtual Hard Disk

• Select Create a virtual hard disk now.
• Set the disk size to at least 40 GB, then click Next.

• Summary:
  • Verify your configurations are correct.
  • Click Finish.

5. Attach Ubuntu ISO

• Select your newly created VM and click Settings.
• Navigate to Storage, then click the Empty CD icon under Controller: IDE.
• Click the CD icon next to Optical Drive, and select Choose a disk file.
• Browse and Select the Ubuntu ISO you downloaded, click OK.

Note: Verify the Boot Order is correct, it should prioritize booting from the virtual optical drive first during installation. After Ubuntu is installed, the boot order can be adjusted to boot from the virtual hard drive.

6. Network Configuration (Before Installation)

• Select your VM, click Settings > Network.
• Configure the network adapters:

Adapter 1:

• Enable Network Adapter: Checked
• Attached to: NAT (default, for internet access)

Adapter 2: (for lab scenarios requiring isolated environments)

• Enable Network Adapter: Checked
• Attached to: Host-Only Adapter
• Select vboxnet0 (or create one under VirtualBox preferences)

Click Ok to save.

7. Start the Installation

• Click Start to boot the VM with the attached ISO.

Note: If you encounter an error like the one below. Wait a few seconds or 1 minute, Ubuntu is preparing to install.

• Select Install Ubuntu when prompted, and click Next.

8. Complete Installation Steps

• Keyboard Layout: Select your preferred keyboard layout.
• Updates and Other Software: Choose Normal Installation and ensure Download updates while installing Ubuntu is checked.
• Installation Type: Choose Erase disk and install Ubuntu (only within the VM).
• Create User Account: Set your username, password, and computer name.
• Installation: Click Install and wait for the process to be completed.

• Installation complete: Click Restart now

9. Remove Installation Media

After installation:

• Go to Devices > Optical Drives, uncheck the ISO file to eject it.
• Restart the VM.

Note: Removing the installation media after installing Ubuntu is essential to ensure that the virtual machine boots from the installed operating system instead of re-running the installation process.

10. Post-Installation Steps

Open the Terminal and run the following two commands.

• Update the system:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

• Install VirtualBox Guest Additions for better performance:

sudo apt install -y virtualbox-guest-utils

Congratulations on successfully installing Ubuntu on VirtualBox! With your VM up and running, you now have a versatile and isolated environment to explore Linux, test security tools, and build your cybersecurity skills.

Note: Remember to take snapshots regularly to preserve your setup before making major changes.