Install Ubuntu 18.04 on VirtualBox
Installing Ubuntu 18.04 on VirtualBox in Windows 10 remains a popular way to explore Linux environments in 2025, even though Ubuntu 18.04 is a legacy version with extended security maintenance (ESM) available until April 2028 for those who need it. VirtualBox, Oracle’s free virtualization software, allows users to run Ubuntu as a guest OS without affecting their Windows host, ideal for testing, development, or learning. For example, a Dhaka-based software developer can set up Ubuntu 18.04 to run legacy applications that require specific libraries not supported in newer Ubuntu versions like 24.04. Compared to dual-booting, which partitions the hard drive and risks data loss, VirtualBox provides a safe, isolated sandbox. Real-world applications include IT professionals simulating network setups or students practicing Linux commands without hardware changes. Guidance: Before starting, ensure your Windows 10 is updated to the latest build, as VirtualBox 7.0 and above integrates better with Windows features like Hyper-V coexistence. This setup not only saves costs but also allows easy snapshots for reverting changes, making it perfect for experimentation.
VirtualBox’s popularity in 2025 stems from its open-source nature and robust features, supporting USB passthrough, shared folders, and multi-monitor setups, which enhance the Ubuntu experience. A Sylhet engineer used it to boot Ubuntu 18.04 for compatibility testing with old software, avoiding the need for dedicated hardware. Compared to VMware Workstation, which is paid and more resource-intensive, VirtualBox is lightweight and free, suitable for mid-range PCs. Guidance: Allocate at least 4GB RAM and 20GB disk space to the VM for smooth performance, adjusting based on your host’s capabilities.
The installation process is straightforward but requires attention to details like enabling virtualization in BIOS. Guidance: Restart your PC and enter BIOS (usually Del or F2) to enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V, as it’s disabled by default on some systems.
Prerequisites for Installation
Before installing, download VirtualBox 7.0 from Oracle’s website, the latest version in 2025 offering improved USB 3.0 support and better Windows 10 integration. Install it by running the executable, following prompts to add it to your system path. For example, a Barisal student installed it on a Core i5 laptop, enabling seamless Ubuntu runs. Compared to QEMU, VirtualBox has a user-friendly GUI. Guidance: During installation, select “Create a shortcut on the desktop” for quick access.
Download the Ubuntu 18.04 ISO from the official Ubuntu archives, as it’s no longer the latest but available for legacy needs. The file is about 2GB, so use a stable connection. Guidance: Verify the SHA256 checksum to ensure integrity, using PowerShell’s Get-FileHash command on Windows.
Enable virtualization in your BIOS/UEFI settings, essential for performance. Guidance: Save changes and exit BIOS to reboot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Ubuntu 18.04 on VirtualBox
- Install VirtualBox on Windows 10
Download VirtualBox 7.0 from Oracle’s site, selecting the Windows hosts version, and run the installer as administrator to avoid permission issues. Accept the license and choose custom installation to select components like USB support. For instance, a Khulna user customized to exclude bridged networking if not needed. Compared to default installation, custom allows lighter footprint. Real-world use: Developers install for testing multiple OS. Guidance: Restart your PC after installation to apply changes.
Install the Extension Pack for USB and RDP support by downloading and double-clicking to add via VirtualBox. Guidance: Agree to the license prompt.
Test launch by opening VirtualBox, ensuring no errors. Guidance: Update drivers if prompted.
- Create a New Virtual Machine
Open VirtualBox and click “New,” naming the VM “Ubuntu 18.04” and selecting Linux > Ubuntu (64-bit) as the type. Allocate 2GB RAM minimum, adjusting based on your host’s 8GB+ recommendation. A Rajshahi student allocated 4GB for smooth multitasking. Compared to 32-bit, 64-bit supports modern features. Guidance: Set CPU cores to 2 for balance.
Create a virtual hard disk of 20GB dynamically allocated to save space. Guidance: Choose VDI format for compatibility.
Save the VM and proceed to settings. Guidance: Name clearly for organization.
- Configure VM Settings
In Settings > System, enable EFI for modern boot and set boot order to optical first, then hard disk. A Barisal user enabled hardware virtualization for speed. Compared to legacy BIOS, EFI supports larger disks. Guidance: Allocate graphics memory if using GUI.
Under Storage, add the Ubuntu ISO to the optical drive. Guidance: Click the disk icon to browse.
Enable USB in Settings > USB, selecting your controller. Guidance: Add filters if needed.
- Start the VM and Install Ubuntu
Click “Start” to boot the VM from the ISO, selecting “Try or Install Ubuntu.” A Chittagong learner installed in 30 minutes. Compared to physical install, VM is safer. Guidance: Follow on-screen prompts for language.
Choose “Install Ubuntu” and select keyboard layout. Guidance: Use English (US) for standard.
Partition the disk, choosing “Erase disk and install.” Guidance: Select normal installation.
- Complete Installation and Setup
Enter user details and wait for files to copy, restarting when done. A Dhaka user set a strong password. Guidance: Choose a timezone like Asia/Dhaka.
Install guest additions post-boot for better resolution. Guidance: Insert guest additions CD via menu.
Test features like shared folders. Guidance: Mount additions and run installer.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
If VM won’t boot, check BIOS virtualization enablement. A Sylhet user fixed by toggling VT-x. Compared to AMD, Intel requires VT-x. Guidance: Enter BIOS with F2 and enable.
ISO not detected? Remount in storage settings. Guidance: Restart VM.
Slow performance? Increase RAM/CPU allocation. Guidance: Shut down VM first.
Advanced VirtualBox Features for Ubuntu
Enable shared folders for file transfer between host and guest. A Khulna developer shared code folders. Compared to USB, it’s faster. Guidance: Install guest additions first.
Use snapshots for backups. Guidance: Create before changes.
Configure networking for internet. Guidance: Use NAT for simple setup.
Reasons to Install Ubuntu on VirtualBox
- Testing Linux: Run Ubuntu safely. Ideal for beginners. No host changes.
- Development Environment: Isolate projects. For coding. Reduces conflicts.
- Learning: Practice commands. For students. Risk-free experiments.
- Compatibility Testing: Test software. For devs. Ensures cross-OS work.
- Recovery Tools: Boot live Ubuntu. For troubleshooting. Fixes host issues.
- Privacy: Run isolated OS. For sensitive tasks. Enhances security.
VirtualBox Versions Comparison Table
| Version | Release Year | Key Feature | Ubuntu Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.0 | 2022 | TPM 2.0 | Full for 18.04 |
| 6.1 | 2019 | EFI boot | Compatible with 18.04 |
| 6.0 | 2018 | 3D acceleration | Supports 18.04 |
| 5.2 | 2017 | USB 3.0 | Basic for 18.04 |
Conclusion: Unlocking Ubuntu in VirtualBox
Installing Ubuntu 18.04 on VirtualBox in Windows 10 in 2025 is straightforward, offering a safe way to explore Linux. Follow this guide for success.