Step-by-Step Tutorial: Running Windows 10 in VirtualBox

VirtualBox is a powerful, open-source virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single machine. In this tutorial, we’ll walk through the steps required to run Windows 10 in VirtualBox.

Table of Contents

1. Requirements
2. Installing VirtualBox
3. Creating a Virtual Machine
4. Configuring Settings
5. Installing Windows 10
6. Optimizing Performance
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
8. Conclusion
9. FAQs

Requirements

Before we start, make sure your computer meets the following requirements:

• Host System: A computer running a Windows, macOS, or Linux operating system.
• RAM: At least 4 GB of RAM, but 8 GB or higher is recommended for better performance.
• Processor: A 64-bit processor with virtualization support (Intel VT-x or AMD-V).
• Storage: At least 20 GB of free disk space for Windows 10 and additional space for applications and files.
• Windows 10 ISO File: A legitimate Windows 10 ISO file which can be downloaded from the official Microsoft Website.

Installing VirtualBox

To begin, you need to install VirtualBox on your host operating system. Follow the steps below:

1. Visit the VirtualBox website and navigate to the downloads section.
2. Download the version compatible with your operating system. For example, download the Windows version if you are running a Windows machine.
3. Open the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Ensure to enable any necessary components or drivers when prompted.
4. Once the installation is complete, launch VirtualBox.

Creating a Virtual Machine

Creating a virtual machine (VM) is the first step towards running Windows 10. Follow these outlined steps:

1. Open VirtualBox and click on the “New” button in the toolbar.
2. In the dialog box that appears, enter the following:

   • Name: Windows 10 (or your desired name)
   • Type: Microsoft Windows
   • Version: Windows 10 (64-bit)

3. Click “Next” to proceed.
4. Allocate the amount of memory (RAM) you wish to assign to the VM. IT is recommended to allocate at least 2048 MB (2 GB) for Windows 10, but 4096 MB (4 GB) is preferable for smoother performance. Then, click “Next.”
5. Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click “Create.”
6. Choose the hard disk file type. The default options are usually suitable, so select “VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image)” and click “Next.”
7. For storage on a physical hard disk, choose “Dynamically allocated” or “Fixed size.” Dynamically allocated is recommended for flexibility, so click “Next.”
8. Specify the size of the virtual hard disk. At least 25 GB is recommended for Windows 10. Once entered, click “Create.”

Configuring Settings

After creating the VM, you need to configure several settings for optimal performance:

1. In the main VirtualBox interface, select your Windows 10 VM and click “Settings.”
2. In the “System” tab:

   • Go to the “Motherboard” tab and ensure that “Enable EFI (special OSes only)” is unchecked unless you specifically need it.
   • Under the “Processor” tab, allocate at least 2 CPU cores (if your host has multiple cores) and check “Enable PAE/NX.”

3. In the “Display” tab:

   • Increase the Video Memory to at least 128 MB.
   • Enable 3D Acceleration if your hardware supports it.

4. In the “Storage” tab:

   • Click on the empty disk icon under “Controller: IDE” and then click the disk icon on the right side. Choose “Choose a disk file…” to select your Windows 10 ISO file.

5. Finally, click “OK” to save your settings.

Installing Windows 10

With your virtual machine configured, you can now install Windows 10:

1. Select your Windows 10 VM in VirtualBox and click “Start.”
2. When prompted, select the Windows 10 ISO file you downloaded earlier, then click “Start.”
3. The Windows 10 installation process begins; follow the prompts:

   • Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click “Next.”
   • Click “Install Now.”
   • If prompted for a product key, you may enter it or choose “I don’t have a product key.”
   • Select the version of Windows 10 you want to install and click “Next.”
   • Agree to the license terms by selecting the check box and clicking “Next.”
   • Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” when prompted for the installation type.
   • Select the partition labeled as “Drive 0 Unallocated Space”, click “Next,” and wait while Windows installs (this may take some time).

4. Complete any additional setup requirements (such as account creation) as prompted by Windows 10.

Optimizing Performance

After installation, there are several adjustments you can make to optimize the performance of Windows 10 running in VirtualBox:

• Install the VirtualBox Guest Additions to improve video performance, enable shared clipboard, and enhance overall usability.

  • Start your Windows 10 VM, and in the VirtualBox menu, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image…
  • Follow the installation prompts and restart your VM when prompted.

• Allocate more RAM and CPU resources as needed by returning to the VM settings in VirtualBox.
• Consider using shared folders to transfer files between your host and VM easily. You can set this up in the “Shared Folders” section of your VM settings.
• Enable auto-resize guest display for better usability, found under View > Auto-resize Guest Display.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you run into issues, consider these solutions:

• VirtualBox won’t start: Make sure that virtualization is enabled in your BIOS settings.
• Slow performance: Ensure your VM has enough allocated RAM and CPU cores and ensure that 3D acceleration is enabled under the display settings.
• Cannot install Windows 10: Verify that you are using a legitimate ISO file and that the VM settings are configured correctly.
• Windows not activating: Ensure you enter a legitimate product key if prompted during installation. If you skipped this, you can activate it later in the settings app.

Conclusion

Successfully running Windows 10 in VirtualBox opens up a world of possibilities for experimentation, software testing, and accessing programs that may not be compatible with your host OS. Following this step-by-step tutorial, you are now equipped to create, install, and optimize your Windows 10 virtual machine efficiently. Remember always to keep your virtual machine’s software updated for the best experience, and explore its various features to maximize your productivity.

FAQs