VirtualBox provides you with an efficient method for running Linux alongside Windows on a single computer, however this means sharing computing resources between both operating systems, potentially leading to underutilized hardware resources.
Your system should have plenty of RAM and a multi-core CPU, with enough hard drive space available for hosting your guest OS and data.
What is a virtual machine?
Virtual machines (VM) are software environments that simulate hardware to enable one physical computer to host multiple OSes and applications on separate servers, providing isolation between OSes running within each VM from those on its host system and any other VMs on that same server.
A virtual machine (VM) runs on a hypervisor, which manages hardware resources like memory. There are two kinds of hypervisors: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is typically found in server environments like data centers while Type 2 runs directly on top of your host operating system and provides more flexibility on desktop and notebook PCs.
Tech enthusiasts who wish to experiment with new technologies without risking their computer or devices can utilize virtual machines (VMs). They provide the perfect platform for exploring, learning new technology, deconstructing computers safely and tinkering in an open and safe environment. In addition, virtual machines (VMs) serve an invaluable testing and development function, for instance testing an app’s stability on a VM before moving it onto your production server.
Installation
Ubuntu is not a lightweight operating system and will require sufficient memory (RAM). Other specifications for optimal operation of this OS are an adequate processor (CPU) and sufficient disk space to install.
Launch VirtualBox and select Ubuntu as the version. When ready, press Start to initiate boot up of your new VM.
As soon as your virtual machine starts up, it will prompt you to select a hard drive. If available, use an empty virtual disk file; otherwise you may leave this field blank.
If you have a high-resolution monitor, the default icons and text may seem hard to read on your screen. One solution is to adjust the “Display” setting within your VM settings; alternatively you could use the file-picker window to mount a folder from your computer that will become visible within your virtual machine, sharing files more efficiently between yourself and VM.
Configuration
Ubuntu Server computers can host virtual machines. For maximum effectiveness, they should possess sufficient system memory, processor speed and hard disk space to accommodate operating systems which run on these virtual machines.
When creating a virtual machine using the GUI, its steps are relatively straightforward. You can specify whether you need 64-bit or 32-bit memory allocation and how many processors will run it; you can even set snapshots so you can quickly switch back to its previous state if need be.
To access VMs from outside your home network, a network bridge must first be created – this involves sharing the physical network adapter of the host computer with all VMs so they can see each other and establish passwordless SSH so you can connect without being asked for your password by Virt-Manager.
Security
Virtual machines provide some level of protection by isolating operating system files from user file partitions. This can restrict an attacker’s ability to tamper with or eavesdrop on data.
However, this does not provide protection from other online threats like malicious software or exploitable flaws in programs like Adobe Reader or Microsoft Word. Furthermore, physical attacks aimed at attacking USB flash drives could occur.
To address these vulnerabilities, there are various steps you can take to improve the security of your server and VMs. These measures include disabling unnecessary functionality, following best practices, and keeping the host operating system updated. In addition, passwordless SSH configuration can make it more difficult for hackers to gain entry to your server; open up the /etc/ssh/config file and change port 22 into another number such as 10022 before rebooting to complete configuration.