Overview
This tutorial covers the required steps to configure and install VirtualBox on a Windows-based computer, including system preparation, necessary downloads, and basic installation instructions.
System Preparation
- Enter your computer's BIOS and enable virtualization (instructions vary by make/model).
- In Windows, open Control Panel > Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off.
- Disable "Hyper-V," "Virtual Machine Platform," and "Windows Hypervisor Platform."
- For Windows 11, also disable "Windows Sandbox."
- Go to Device Security > Core Isolation and turn off "Memory Integrity" (Core Isolation).
Downloading Required Files
- Download the latest version of VirtualBox for Windows from the official website.
- Download the VirtualBox Extension Pack from the same site.
- Download the "C++ 2019 Redistributable" from Microsoft if not already installed (required on new systems).
Installation Steps
- Install the C++ redistributable if prompted during VirtualBox installation.
- Run the VirtualBox installer, accept all default options, and acknowledge the temporary internet interruption warning.
- Ignore Python-related prompts unless needed for your use.
- After installing VirtualBox, do not launch it immediately; instead, install the Extension Pack.
- Accept the license agreement for the Extension Pack when prompted.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Virtualization — Technology that allows one computer to run multiple operating systems as virtual machines.
- BIOS — Basic Input/Output System; firmware interface for system hardware settings.
- Hyper-V — Microsoft's built-in virtualization platform for Windows.
- Core Isolation (Memory Integrity) — A Windows security feature that can conflict with some virtualization software.
- Extension Pack — Adds extra features and device support to VirtualBox.
- C++ Redistributable — Microsoft libraries required for some Windows applications to run.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Prepare your system by changing BIOS and Windows virtualization/security settings.
- Download and install VirtualBox, Extension Pack, and C++ Redistributable if needed.
- Watch the next tutorial for instructions on creating and setting up a new virtual machine in VirtualBox.