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Apple’s macOS Mojave remains a popular operating system for developers, designers, and enthusiasts seeking a stable macOS environment. However, running macOS on non-Apple hardware requires virtualization tools like Oracle VM VirtualBox, a free and open-source solution that enables users to explore macOS features on a Windows PC. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough to install macOS Mojave on VirtualBox, offering a risk-free way to test applications, experiment with macOS workflows, or develop software without investing in Apple hardware.
While Apple’s EULA restricts macOS installation to Apple-branded devices, this tutorial is intended for educational purposes. By leveraging virtualization, users can create an isolated environment to experience macOS Mojave’s capabilities, including Dark Mode, dynamic desktop, and enhanced security features. Below, we detail the process of configuring macOS Mojave on VirtualBox, addressing common pitfalls and optimizing performance for a seamless experience.
If you want to use VMware, you can use this guide: Install macOS Mojave on VMware on Windows PC
Prerequisites (macOS Mojave on VirtualBox)
Before beginning, ensure you have the following:
- Hardware support: A Windows PC with an Intel or AMD CPU that supports hardware virtualization (Intel VT-x or AMD-V). Virtualization must be enabled in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Consult your motherboard documentation to activate “Intel Virtualization Technology”. Here is a complete guide that you can use: How to Enable Virtualization in Windows 11
- VirtualBox installer: Download the latest Oracle VirtualBox for Windows from the official site and have the installer ready.
- VirtualBox extension pack: Download
- macOS Mojave virtual disk: Download the macOS Mojave VMDK file. You can use a pre-made VMDK (VirtualBox disk) file or an ISO installer.
- VirtualBox boot image: Download the VirtualBox boot (APFS) disk image. This special file enables the Mojave installer to boot properly in VirtualBox.
- VBoxManage patch script: Below you will find a set of
VBoxManagecommands to patch the VM configuration for macOS support. - RAM and disk space: At least 8 GB of system RAM (4 GB or more free for the VM) and 50+ GB of free disk space are recommended.
Once these items are ready (and you have enabled CPU virtualization), proceed to the installation steps.
Step-by-Step Installation (macOS Mojave on VirtualBox)
1. Install VirtualBox & Extension Pack on Windows
Run the VirtualBox installer (.exe) on your Windows host. Follow the wizard prompts to complete the installation. By default, VirtualBox installs to C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox.
Double-click the .vbox-extpack file and click Install when VirtualBox prompts you.
2. Create and Configure the Virtual Machine
In VirtualBox Manager, click New.
- Name and OS: Enter a name for your VM (e.g., “macOS Mojave”). Set Type to Mac OS X and Version to Mac OS X (64-bit) (or the closest Mojave 64-bit option). VirtualBox will auto-detect the proper settings based on the name.
- RAM: Minimum 4 GB (8 GB recommended).
- Processors: 4 cores for smooth performance.
- Hard Disk: Choose Use an existing virtual hard disk file and select the downloaded macOS Mojave VMDK. If you have an ISO instead, you can create a new VirtualBox HDD and attach the ISO later as the optical drive.
Click Create to finish the basic VM. Now you should see the VM listed (e.g., “macOS Mojave”) in the Manager.
Next, adjust the VM settings:
- Display > Screen: Set Video Memory to the maximum (128 MB).
Save the settings by clicking OK when finished.
3. Apply VirtualBox Command-Line Patches
macOS Mojave on VirtualBox requires some special firmware and CPU configuration tweaks to run in VirtualBox. Close VirtualBox first. Then open Notepad (or any text editor) and enter the following commands, replacing "macOS Mojave" with your VM’s name (quotes included if name has spaces):
cd "C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox\"
VBoxManage.exe modifyvm "macOS Mojave" --cpuidset 00000001 000106e5 00100800 0098e3fd bfebfbff
VBoxManage setextradata "macOS Mojave" "VBoxInternal/Devices/efi/0/Config/DmiSystemProduct" "iMac11,3"
VBoxManage setextradata "macOS Mojave" "VBoxInternal/Devices/efi/0/Config/DmiSystemVersion" "1.0"
VBoxManage setextradata "macOS Mojave" "VBoxInternal/Devices/efi/0/Config/DmiBoardProduct" "Iloveapple"
VBoxManage setextradata "macOS Mojave" "VBoxInternal/Devices/smc/0/Config/DeviceKey" "ourhardworkbythesewordsguardedpleasedontsteal(c)AppleComputerInc"
VBoxManage setextradata "macOS Mojave" "VBoxInternal/Devices/smc/0/Config/GetKeyFromRealSMC" 0
Make sure to replace macOS Mojave Exactly with your VM’s name, e.g. "macOS Mojave". If VirtualBox is installed in a different folder, adjust the cd path accordingly.)
Save this as a batch script or simply copy it to the clipboard.
Now run Command Prompt as Administrator: right-click the Start button, choose Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
In the console, paste and execute the commands. Each should run quickly without errors.
These patches set the SMBIOS data so macOS will recognize the VM as a supported Apple machine.
4. Attach the VirtualBox Boot Disk
Next, you need to add the special VirtualBox boot image to the VM so that it can start the macOS installer:
- Open VirtualBox again and select your macOS VM. Click Settings, then go to Storage.
- Under the Controller: SATA section (or click the empty optical drive if one appears), click the small HDD icon (Add HDD) and choose Add.
- In the file dialog, click Add, then browse to the downloaded VirtualBox Boot Image (a
.vmdkor.isofile provided for Mojave). Select it and click Open. - Now the Boot image will be listed under the SATA controller as a virtual CD/DVD. Click OK to save settings.
With this boot disk attached, the VM can load the macOS installer environment when it starts.
5. Boot and Install macOS Mojave on VirtualBox
Start the VM by selecting it and clicking Start in VirtualBox. The VM will boot from the attached boot image and eventually load the macOS installer. You may see a lot of verbose text (kernel messages) scroll by—this is normal.
If you see several codes running on the screen, you don’t need to worry. It will just boot up; only wait.
Once the virtual machine finishes booting, the macOS setup assistant appears. Proceed through these screens:
- Install macOS Mojave on VirtualBox: Now, this will take a while, and your macOS Mojave will be installed on your VirtualBox on your Windows PC. Your virtual machine might start several times, so do not panic.
- Location: Choose your location.
- Keyboard Layout: Pick your keyboard (or click “Show All” to find it) and click Continue.
- How Do You Connect?: Select My computer does not connect to the internet.
- Transfer Information: You can choose to transfer data or skip. (For a clean install, select “Don’t transfer any information now” or skip that step.)
- Terms and Conditions: Agree to Apple’s terms and conditions.
- Create Computer Account: Enter a name, account name, password, and password hint for your new macOS user, then click Continue.
- Express Setup: Configure the final macOS Mojave Settings.
- Choose Your Look: Choose from Light or Dark Version.
The VM is already connected to the internet via NAT, so it will enroll and reach Apple’s servers if necessary. After these steps, macOS will finish installation and boot into the Mojave desktop.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed macOS Mojave on VirtualBox.
6. Finalize Installation and Update macOS Mojave on VirtualBox
Once Mojave is running, it’s a good idea to update to the latest build for security and compatibility.
From Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update, click Upgrade Now. Enter your password when prompted and let the update download and install.
When the installer asks, click Download & Restart to reboot the VM and apply updates.
The VM will restart into the updated macOS Mojave (for example, 10.14.x).
At this point, the macOS Mojave virtual machine is fully installed and updated. You can install Xcode, use the App Store, and configure Mojave as you would on real hardware (within the limits of virtualization).
If you want to use VMware, you can use this guide: Install macOS Mojave on VMware on Windows PC
Conclusion: macOS Mojave on VirtualBox
Successfully running macOS Mojave on VirtualBox unlocks a versatile environment for testing, development, or personal exploration of macOS features. This guide ensures a methodical approach to configuring the VM, addressing hardware allocation, and troubleshooting common issues like input lag or display limitations.
While virtualization bridges the gap between Windows and macOS ecosystems, users must remain mindful of Apple’s licensing policies. By adhering to the steps above, you can create a stable macOS Mojave setup on VirtualBox, ideal for short-term projects or learning purposes. For optimal performance, allocate ample resources and keep both VirtualBox and macOS updated.
Whether you’re a developer testing cross-platform apps or a curious user exploring macOS, this VirtualBox setup offers a practical solution. Share your feedback or challenges in the comments, and explore our advanced guides for optimizing performance or resolving complex errors.
Disclaimer: This tutorial on how to install macOS Mojave on VirtualBox is intended for educational use. macOS is licensed exclusively for Apple hardware.