Installing VirtualBox

A virtual machine is a a software that allows users to install multiple operating systems within an operating system. For example, if you are running Mac OS, you can install Ubuntu and Microsoft Windows inside the virtual machine.

VirtualBox is an opensource virtual machine software. I found that it is easier to install and use than Parallels and VMware Workstation.

Installing VirtualBox on Mac OS

1. Download latest stable release of VirtualBox from http://www.virtualbox.com.
2. Double-click on the dmg file
3. Type virtualbox in your spotlight and start using it

Installing VirtualBox on Microsoft Windows

1. Download latest stable release of VirtualBox from http://www.virtualbox.com.
2. Double-click on the setup file
3. Start menu -> Programs -> Sun Virtualbox -> Virtualbox

Installing VirtualBox on Debian Systems such as Ubuntu

Virtualbox is a contributing repository so you will need to add the repository to your synaptic package manager. Add the following repository.

deb http://download.virtualbox.org/virtualbox/debian natty contrib

Restart Synaptic or reboot your system. Add Oracle public key

sudo apt-key add oracle_vbox.asc

Install VirtualBox

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install virtualbox-4.0
sudo apt-get install dkms

Installing an operating system on VirtualBox

Launch VirtualBox and click on “create new” and follow instructions. On Mac, if your mouse gets stuck inside the VirtualBox window, press Left Mac button.