Install VirtualBox Guest Additions - Windows & Linux
Enhancing Virtual Machine Performance with VirtualBox Guest Additions
VirtualBox, developed by Sun, is a powerful and freely available virtual machine application. It enables users to operate multiple operating systems concurrently on a single computer. This article details the installation process for Guest Additions, a feature designed to significantly improve the performance of the guest operating system.
Installing Guest Additions on Windows
Guest Additions comprise device drivers and system applications that are installed within the guest operating system to optimize its functionality. To begin, launch the desired guest OS within VirtualBox.
Navigate to the "Devices" menu and select "Install Guest Additions." This action will initiate the installation process on the guest operating system.
The AutoPlay window will appear on the guest OS. Proceed by clicking on the "Run VBox Windows Additions" executable.
When prompted by User Account Control (UAC), confirm the action by clicking "Yes."
Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installation wizard to continue.
During the installation, you may be presented with the option to enable Direct3D acceleration. Consider your system resources carefully before selecting this feature. While it can enhance graphics performance, it may also consume more host resources and potentially introduce instability.
As the installation progresses, you will be asked to authorize the installation of Sun display adapters. Grant the necessary permissions to proceed.
Upon completion of the installation, a system reboot is required to activate the changes.
Installing Guest Additions on Ubuntu
Installing Guest Additions on Ubuntu virtual machines is equally straightforward. Ensure your Ubuntu virtual machine is running.
Select "Devices" from the menu and then choose "Install Guest Additions." This will mount the ISO image and display an icon on the desktop.
A message box will appear, prompting you to "Run" the installation. Click "Run" to initiate the process.
You will be asked to enter your administrator password. Input your password and click "OK."
The installation will then commence. Once finished, you will be prompted to press "Enter."
A reboot of the guest operating system is necessary to finalize the installation.
Command Line Installation
Alternatively, Guest Additions can be installed via the command line. Open a Terminal session within the Ubuntu virtual machine.
Execute the following commands sequentially:
cd /media/cdromlssudo ./VBoxLinuxAdditions-x86.run
Following the command-line installation, restart Ubuntu either through the graphical user interface or by typing sudo reboot in the terminal.
The Guest Additions package provides several valuable features, including shared clipboards and folders, improved video support, and seamless mouse pointer integration. These enhancements allow for a more fluid and integrated experience between the host and guest operating systems.
Related VirtualBox resources: Explore new operating systems easily with VirtualBox, or test Linux distributions on your Windows PC using VirtualBox.