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In an era where cross-platform versatility is essential, running Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows offers the perfect balance between experimentation and stability. Virtualization technology has revolutionized how developers, IT professionals, and tech enthusiasts interact with multiple operating systems. By leveraging Oracle VM VirtualBox, you can explore Ubuntu 25—a cutting-edge Linux distribution renowned for its user-friendly interface and robust performance—without altering your primary Windows setup.

Why choose this approach? Unlike dual-booting, which risks data loss or system conflicts, VirtualBox creates a self-contained environment where Ubuntu 25 operates independently. This is ideal for testing software, learning terminal commands, or developing cross-platform applications. Moreover, Ubuntu 25 introduces enhanced security protocols, improved hardware compatibility, and updated software repositories, making it a compelling choice for both novices and experts.
This guide will walk you through every phase of installing Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows, from sourcing files to optimizing performance. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional Linux environment ready for exploration—all while keeping Windows intact. Let’s begin this journey into seamless virtualization!
Prerequisites for Installing Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows
Before diving in, ensure you have:
- A Windows PC with at least 8GB of RAM and 30GB of free storage (15GB for Ubuntu + buffer space).
- Ubuntu 25 ISO File: Download the 64-bit desktop image from Ubuntu’s official site.
- Oracle VM VirtualBox: Install the latest version for Windows from VirtualBox’s download page.
- VirtualBox Extension Pack: Enhances USB support, video resolution, and file sharing. Download VirtualBox Extension Pack.

Install Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows PC
Step 1: Install VirtualBox and Extension Pack
- Download VirtualBox:
- Visit the official VirtualBox site and select Windows Hosts under VirtualBox Platform Packages.
- Run the installer and follow prompts, keeping default settings for compatibility.

- Add Extension Pack:
- Double-click the downloaded VirtualBox Extension Pack file. VirtualBox will prompt installation and accept licenses to enable advanced features like seamless mode and drag-and-drop file sharing.

Why This Matters: The Extension Pack bridges functionality gaps between your host (Windows) and guest (Ubuntu) systems, ensuring smoother interactions.
Step 2: Configure a Virtual Machine for Ubuntu 25
- Create a New VM:
- Open VirtualBox and click New. Name it Ubuntu, set Type to Linux, Subtype to Ubuntu, and Version to Ubuntu (64-bit).
- Allocate Resources:
- Base Memory: Assign 4–8GB (stay within the green zone of the slider).
- Processors: Assign 2-4 Processors.
- Storage: Create a 25GB dynamically allocated VDI disk. This optimizes space by expanding only as needed.

- Attach Ubuntu ISO:
- Under ISO Image, click the downward arrow, select Others, and browse to your Ubuntu 25 ISO.

Step 3: Configure Unattended Install & Enable Guest Additions for Enhanced Performance
You have to type in your Ubuntu username and password.

Guest Additions are tools that improve integration between Ubuntu and Windows. Here’s how to enable them:
During VM setup, check Install Guest Additions under the Unattended Install tab.

You will find the default Guest Addition URL. If there is no ISO attached, you can find the ISO in this directory:
C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox\VBoxGuestAdditions.iso

After installation, Ubuntu will automatically mount the Guest Additions ISO.
Benefits: Enables features like shared clipboard, adjustable screen resolution, and folder sharing.
Step 4: Install Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows
- Start the VM and select Try or Install Ubuntu from the GRUB menu.

- Wait 15–430 minutes for completion. The VM will reboot automatically.
If you are stuck for more than 30 minutes on 'Copying Files....'. Just close the Virtual Machine forcefully and restart it. You will be able to log in to your Ubuntu OS.
Step 5: Post-Installation Optimization
- Update Packages:
Launch Terminal and run the following commands:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
This fetches the latest security patches and software updates.

- Refresh Snap Packages:
Ubuntu uses Snap for app delivery. Now type:
sudo snap refresh

- Adjust Display Settings:
- Go to Settings > Displays to set your preferred resolution.
- For full-screen mode, press Right Ctrl + F (Host Key).


- Install Essential Software:
Explore Ubuntu’s App Center for tools like LibreOffice, GIMP, or Visual Studio Code.

Step 6: Managing Your Ubuntu 25 Virtual Machine
- Shutting Down: Always use Ubuntu’s power menu to avoid data loss.

- Restarting: Launch VirtualBox and click Start on your Ubuntu VM.

- Snapshots: Use VirtualBox’s Snapshots feature to save system states before major changes.
Complete Video Tutorial: Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows
Conclusion: Why Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows is a Game-Changer
By installing Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows, you’ve unlocked a risk-free gateway to Linux’s open-source ecosystem. This setup is perfect for:
- Developers testing apps in a Linux environment.
- Students learning terminal commands and system administration.
- Curious users exploring Linux without abandoning Windows.
VirtualBox’s flexibility allows you to experiment freely—clone VMs for different projects, allocate more resources as needed, or even simulate network configurations. Meanwhile, Ubuntu 25’s LTS (Long-Term Support) guarantees five years of updates, making it a stable choice for long-term use.

Pro Tips for Advanced Users:
- Use Shared Folders (Devices > Shared Folders) to transfer files between OSes.
- Enable Bidirectional Clipboard in Settings > General > Advanced.
- Allocate more CPU cores under System > Processor for resource-heavy tasks.
Embrace the power of virtualization to expand your technical horizons. With Ubuntu 25 on VirtualBox on Windows, the possibilities are endless—whether you’re coding, designing, or simply satisfying your curiosity.
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