If you’re looking to run different operating systems—like Linux, Windows XP, or macOS—on your Windows 11 machine without affecting your primary setup, VirtualBox is one of the best tools available. I’ve used it for testing Linux distros, trying out Windows builds, and experimenting with server setups in a safe, isolated environment. Oracle VirtualBox is a powerful, free, and open-source virtualization platform that works seamlessly on Windows 11, and this article walks you through exactly how to use it step by step.
What Is VirtualBox and Why Use It?
VirtualBox allows you to run multiple operating systems (OS) simultaneously on your computer. These OSes run in virtual machines (VMs)—completely isolated from your main system.
Use cases include:
- Testing new OSes or updates without risk
- Running Linux on top of Windows
- Trying out malware or insecure software safely
- Setting up development environments
- Creating disposable workspaces
System Requirements
Before you begin, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements:
- Windows 11 (Home, Pro, or Enterprise)
- 64-bit processor with virtualization enabled in BIOS (Intel VT-x or AMD-V)
- At least 8 GB RAM (4 GB minimum for host + 2 GB minimum for guest OS)
- 10–20 GB free disk space depending on guest OS
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use VirtualBox on Windows 11
Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox
- Visit the official website: https://www.virtualbox.org
- Click on Downloads
- Choose Windows hosts to download the installer
- Run the installer (VirtualBox-*.exe)
- Follow the installation wizard:
- Accept default settings unless you have special requirements
- Grant permissions when prompted
- Finish and launch Oracle VM VirtualBox Manager
Tip: Restart your system if prompted. I had to do this for the network adapters to install correctly.
Step 2: Download the Guest Operating System (ISO File)
You’ll need the ISO file of the operating system you want to install (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Windows 7).
For example:
- Ubunt
- Debian
- Windows ISO
Save the ISO to a known location like your Downloads folder.
Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine
- Open VirtualBox
- Click New in the top-left corner
- Enter a name for your VM (e.g., Ubuntu Test)
- Choose the Type (Linux or Windows) and Version (e.g., Ubuntu (64-bit))
- Click Next
Step 4: Allocate RAM (Memory)
- Choose how much RAM to assign to the VM
- For most Linux distros, 2048 MB (2 GB) is sufficient
- Avoid allocating more than 50% of your total RAM
Click Next
Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk
- Select Create a virtual hard disk now
- Click Create
- Choose disk type (default: VDI)
- Choose storage type:
- Dynamically allocated: grows as needed
- Fixed size: better performance, uses space immediately
- Set disk size (e.g., 20 GB minimum for most Linux installs)
- Click Create
Step 6: Mount the ISO File
Now, attach the OS ISO to boot the VM.
- Select your VM and click Settings
- Go to Storage
- Under Controller: IDE, click Empty
- On the right side, click the disk icon, then Choose a disk file
- Browse and select your ISO file
- Click OK
Step 7: Start the Virtual Machine
- Select the VM from the list
- Click Start
- The VM will boot from the ISO
- Proceed with the OS installation as if you were installing on a real machine
Tip: Use your mouse within the VM window to interact. Press Right Ctrl to release the mouse back to your host system.
Step 8: Install Guest Additions (Highly Recommended)
Guest Additions improve integration between Windows and the guest OS. They allow:
- Clipboard sharing
- Drag-and-drop files
- Automatic screen resizing
- Seamless mouse integration
Steps:
- Once OS is installed and running, click Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image
- Open the mounted CD drive inside the guest OS
- Run the installation script
- Reboot the guest OS when done
I noticed much smoother performance and better screen resolution after installing Guest Additions, especially on Ubuntu and Debian.
Step 9: Configure Network and Shared Folders (Optional)
If you want internet access and shared folders between the host and guest OS:
Networking:
- Go to Settings > Network
- Choose Bridged Adapter for external network access
- Or NAT for internet through host
Shared Folders:
- Go to Settings > Shared Folders
- Click the + icon
- Choose a folder path on your host
- Assign a folder name and check Auto-mount and Make permanent
- Access the folder from inside the guest OS after reboot
Step 10: Save, Pause, or Close Your VM
You can manage your VM without shutting it down every time.
- Pause: Temporarily freezes the state
- Save State: Saves the exact running state to resume later
- ACPI Shutdown: Soft shutdown like pressing the power button
- Power Off: Abrupt stop (not recommended unless VM is unresponsive)
Use File > Close or click the X on the VM window to choose the shutdown method.
Common Issues and Fixes
VirtualBox won’t launch VM:
- Make sure virtualization is enabled in BIOS
- Disable Hyper-V or Windows Subsystem for Android if conflicts occur
Guest OS is slow:
- Allocate more RAM or enable 2 CPUs under Settings > System > Processor
Screen resolution stuck:
- Install Guest Additions and reboot the guest OS
Conclusion
VirtualBox on Windows 11 is a powerful way to run other operating systems without leaving your main environment. Whether you’re a developer, student, or just curious, this tool opens up endless possibilities for learning, testing, and working securely.
By following this guide, you now know how to:
- Install and configure VirtualBox
- Set up a virtual machine
- Run and manage a guest OS
- Improve usability with Guest Additions
- Enable shared folders and network access
I’ve used VirtualBox extensively for testing environments and experimenting with new OS builds. It’s stable, easy to use, and a great entry point into virtualization.