Рассказываем, как установить Linux Ubuntu на Windows бесплатно с помощью VirtualBox и зачем вообще это делать.
Один из самых простых способов установить изолированную операционную систему Linux с графическим окружением, особенно если вы работаете на Windows версии ниже 10 — воспользоваться сторонним бесплатным сервисом VirtualBox.
Что нужно для установки:
- Инсталлятор Oracle VM VirtualBox для Windows Hosts. Ссылка на скачивание: Download Oracle VM VirtualBox
- Образ операционной системы Ubuntu Linux в формате ISO. Ссылка на скачивание: Download Ubuntu Desktop
Читайте также:
Изучите необходимый минимум Linux, чтобы быть продуктивными
Для начала нужно установить и запустить приложение VirtualBox.
Нажимаем кнопку «Создать», находим в списке тип операционной системы «Linux». Лучше всего выбрать стандартную версию «Ubuntu» 64 битной архитектуры, а название для нее можно ввести любое.
Указываем объем оперативной памяти, выделенной под виртуальную систему. Рекомендованный объем составляет 1024 MB.
Указываем объем дискового пространства, выделенного под виртуальную систему. Рекомендованный объем — 10 GB, но вы можете указать больше, так как новые версии могут потребовать много пространства для установки.
Тип виртуального жесткого диска можно оставить как есть — VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).
Формат хранения данных нужно выбрать, исходя из личных предпочтений. Динамический виртуальный жесткий диск растет по мере заполнения, а фиксированный создается сразу такого размера, который был указан на предыдущем шаге.
Имя и размер файла можно оставить без изменений, поэтому можно сразу нажать на кнопку «Создать».
Если вы все сделали правильно, у вас появится виртуальная машина, на которой пока нет операционной системы. Для того чтобы ее установить, нужно скачать образ Ubuntu Linux с официальной страницы загрузки.
Нажатие на кнопку «Запустить» приведет к появлению диалогового окна с предложением указать путь до скаченного ISO-образа. Сделайте это и нажмите кнопку «Продолжить».
Виртуальная машина автоматически выполнит часть процессов, но в некоторых операциях все же потребуется участие пользователя.
Выберите языковую поддержку в списке слева и нажмите «Установить Ubuntu».
Можно загрузить все обновления сразу на этапе установки.
Без особых опасений выбираем пункт «Стереть диск и установить Ubuntu» и двигаемся дальше.
Заполните поля и выберите режим входа в систему.
Далее начнется процедура разметки диска, переноса файлов, установка обновлений и другие процессы, которые не потребуют прямого участия пользователя.
В конце установки виртуальный компьютер перезагрузится, и вы попадете уже в установленную среду Ubuntu Linux.
На этом этапе нужно еще установить так называемые «Дополнения гостевой ОС». Они содержат драйверы и другие системные файлы, необходимые для повышения производительности и обеспечения дополнительных функциональных возможностей между виртуальной и гостевой операционной системой.
Выберите пункт «Устройства» в программе VirtualBox, подпункт «Подключить образ диска Дополнений гостевой ОС…» и дождитесь, пока программа предложит вам открыть приложение для автоматического запуска с виртуального привода.
Виртуальная ОС Ubuntu Linux установлена и готова к работе. При этом если на каком-то этапе что-то пошло не так, то подробнее инструкцию можно разобрать в официальной документации к Ubuntu.
Читайте также:
Как работать с подсистемой Windows WSL для Linux
Время на прочтение6 мин
Количество просмотров25K
Операционная система Linux похоже в очередной раз пытается ворваться в жизнь российского пользователя. И многим Windows-пользователям хочешь – не хочешь приходится пытаться ужиться с данной операционной системой. Можно много говорить о том, что это все придирки, что операционные системы сейчас как близнецы, что проблемы с «пересаживанием» пользователя на Linux выдумки тех, кто его не разу не видел, но… Лучше всего приучать постепенно и дать пользователю возможность попробовать операционную систему «в деле» до того, как вы ее ему поставите.
Я буду вести повествование с точки зрения преподавателя, которому необходимо перейти на отечественный дистрибутив (в моем случае это будет один из школьных дистрибутивов семейства Альт). Это будет интересный вызов еще и с той точки зрения, что известные дистрибутивы имеют больше информации о своем использовании, а данный дистрибутив хоть и похож на остальные Linux, но имеет свои «самобытные» черты и особенности.
LiveCD (точнее LiveUSB)
Самый простой способ, но не лучший. Вы записываете установочный образ дистрибутива на USB-носитель и получаете также возможность запустить дистрибутив в Live-формате. Дистрибутив будет разворачиваться прямо с USB в память вашего компьютера, не меняя ничего на его дисках. В обычном LiveCD режиме вы получаете систему с «предзаданным» набором ПО и настроек, где все ваши изменения и данные будут уничтожены после завершения текущего сеанса. Чисто «на посмотреть». Да, можно загрузиться в режиме «LiveCD с поддержкой сеансов», но ваши возможности также будут ограничены объемом USB-диска и доустановка ПО (а тем более обновление системы до актуальной версии) вызовут проблемы, если вообще будет возможна.
Сперва вам необходимо будет скачать и установить специализированный софт (я использовал программу от авторов дистрибутива ALT Media Writer) для создания USB‑диска. Далее вставляете в ПК «флешку» подходящего объема (я взял на 16 гигов, чтобы использовать режим сохранения сеансов) и запускаете программу. Затем вам нужно будет, нажав на три точки, выбрать нужный дистрибутив и затем просто нажав на кнопку Создать Live USB. После скачивания дистрибутива вам останется нажать на кнопку Записать на диск и загрузиться с созданного загрузочного USB-носителя.
VirtualBox
Следующий вариант предсказуем: виртуальная машина. Скачиваем и устанавливаем VirtualBox. Скачиваем дистрибутив операционной системы. Далее создаем новую виртуальную машину, куда подключаем скачанный iso-образ и ставим типа ОС Linux, а Версию Linux 2.6/3.x/4.x/5.x (64-bit).
После выделяем необходимое количество ОЗУ и числа ядер процессора для виртуальной машины (рекомендую поставить на максимум зеленой зоны параметров) и создаем новый виртуальный жесткий диск. Для нашей ОС лучше установить объем в 60 Гб. Меньше будут проблемы с автоматическим разбиением, а больше вы скорее всего не заполните при тестировании.
Запускаем виртуальную машину и учимся устанавливать операционную систему Linux по инструкции. Здесь рекомендую выбрать на шаге Подготовка диска метод установки «Использовать неразмеченное пространство», а на шаге Установка системы не выбирать «Среда KDE5», если у вас ПК с 4 Гб ОЗУ или менее. Остальные пункты тут по желанию, например учителям 1–10 классов школ будет достаточно выбрать «Начальная школа» и «Средняя школа».
После установки вы загрузитесь в Linux и можете спокойно его «пробовать», не боясь сломать вашу Windows. Вы также можете пробросить в операционную систему подключенные к компьютеру через USB-порты устройства и есть шанс, что они там тоже заработают. Единственное что придется поколдовать с разными настройками. Ну и доступ к файловой системе «носителя» виртуалки вам придется реализовывать через Общие папки. Также можно забыть про полноценное 3D-ускорение, не говоря уже об ML.
Hyper-V
Если у вас Windows Pro версий 8 и старше (лучше, конечно, 10 или 11), то вы можете использовать «родную» виртуализацию от Microsoft. Это даст вам большую скорость работы и лучшую интеграцию с Windows. Для начала вам нужно будет добавить компоненты Hyper-V в вашу систему (Настройки – Приложения – Дополнительные компоненты – Hyper-V).
После вам нужно будет запустить Диспетчер Hyper-V и создать виртуальную машину через пункт Создать. Выбираем первое поколение ОС, объем ОЗУ виртуалки равный четверти объема ОЗУ на вашем компьютере, виртуальный жесткий диск на 60 Гб и подключаем iso-образ дистрибутива Linux. Затем подключаемся к созданной виртуалке, запускаем ее и устанавливаем Linux….
Вот тут меня лично ждал облом, так как я столкнулся с проблемой black screen и на рабочем ПК, так и не смог ничего увидеть. Виртуальная машина работала, но vmconnect не хотел к ней подключаться. Провозившись пару дней, перерыв кучу сайтов, перепробовав разные советы от настройки прав до смены порта подключения, я плюнул на эту затею (я грешу на видеокарту Radeon 6500 XT, у которой просто нет нужных блоков для кодинга/декодинга) и попробовал все сделать на ноутбуке. Только вот там стоит Win 10 Home, под которую нет Hyper-V.
Но мир не без добрых людей, и вуаля, у меня виртуалка с линукс, только в очень печальной конфигурации с 1 Гб ОЗУ. XFCE на ней работает, хоть и чуть тормознуто. В вашем случае, очень надеюсь, все пройдет более гладко.
Минусы у данного метода тоже есть: доступ к данным физического жесткого диска требует его отключения от основной системы (или придется расшаривать папки по сети) и работа с подключенными USB-устройствами возможна только в Расширенном сеансе и выборе второго поколения ОС при установке. У меня это на ноутбуке с данным дистрибутивом не получилось.
WSL2
Третий вариант позволяет больше «пощупать» внутренности и софт Linux, чем ее графическое окружение. В данном случае мы сделаем виртуалку через Windows Linux Subsytem. При этом мы сможем запускать все приложения нативно из меню Пуск, получать доступ к терминалу Linux прямо из терминала Windows, а также получать прямой доступ как к файловой системе Linux, так и к Windows в обоих направлениях. Плюс будет идти трансляция 3D-запросов графики от Linux в Windows, преобразуя в запросы DirectX и мы даже сможем выполнять вычисления на GPU.
Звучит заманчиво, но как это сделать. WSL вы сейчас можете установить из Microsoft Store, но вот дистрибутивы там ограничены популярными. Но и это можно поправить. Вот пошаговая инструкция:
1. В Hyper-V создаем виртуальную машину, но в настройках ставим объем виртуального диска 30 Гб и в Параметрах ВМ отключаем создание контрольных точек.
2. Ставим дистрибутив линукс, но на этапе Подготовка диска выбираем «Подготовить разделы вручную» и создаем единственный раздел на 30 Гб с монтированием в корень ( / ).
3. Ничего не выбираем из дополнительных пакетов, ставим как есть.
4. После установки необходимо будет загрузиться в дистрибутив, запустить Терминал, переключиться на root (su -) и прописать конфигурацию, чтобы включить использование systemd в WSL
echo -e “[boot]\nsystemd=true” >> /etc/wsl.conf
5. Завершить работу в виртуальной машине и скопировать файл виртуального диска VHDХ (он обычно находится в подпапке Virtual Hard Disk) куда-нибудь в другое место, чтобы подключить его к WSL. Главное не забудьте, что этот диск будет «разбухать» в процессе работы, поэтому копируйте его на носитель с достаточным свободным местом.
6. После этого можете удалить Hyper-V с вашего компьютера, убрав соответствующие галочки (см. ранее, как мы его ставили). WSL работает без установки его компонентов.
7. Подключаем наш виртуальный диск с Линукс к WSL
wsl --import-in-place ALTEDU10 <путь до вашего образа VHDX>
8. Проверяем, что дистрибутив добавился командой wsl -l (у меня стоит параллельно еще Ubuntu)
Дистрибутивы подсистемы Windows для Linux:
Ubuntu-20.04 (по умолчанию)
ALTEDU10
9. Пробуем запустить командой wsl -d ALTEDU10
Если все сделано правильно, то дистрибутив загрузится в командную строку и вы сможете с ним работать, как с обычным Linux. Более того, все ваши физические диски уже буду примонтированы в /mnt, устройства с компьютера будут доступны и в Linux, как и будет работать буфер обмена.
Если у вас до этого не было дистрибутивов Linux, то установленный дистрибутив встанет дистрибутивом по умолчанию и для его запуска достаточно будет набрать в консоли wsl.
Из замеченных минусов: дистрибутив загружается в root пользователя и слетает системная локаль. Второе лечится добавлением в конец файла .bashrc в каталоге /root следующей команды
export LANG=ru_RU.UTF-8
а первое переключением на пользователя командой
su - <имя пользователя>
Можно еще повозиться, настроить sudo для пользователя или вообще заморочиться входом в пользователя в режиме консоли, но мне хватает и такого режима. Может быть позже.
Linux-система получается полноценной, приложения, требующие X-сервер работают, система обновляется и это тот вариант, когда вам нужно попробовать те же серверные компоненты или посмотреть Linux-приложения, или получить доступ к каким-то языкам программирования, но в Linux.
Далее можно уйти в сторону контейнеризации или попробовать другие виртуальные машины, но это выходит за рамки моего повествования.
Если эта публикация вас вдохновила и вы хотите поддержать автора — не стесняйтесь нажать на кнопку
Are you a Windows 10 user who wants to explore the world of Linux? Virtual machines provide a convenient way to run Linux on your Windows 10 system without the need for dual-booting or partitioning your hard drive. In this article, we will explore the best virtual machine options for running Linux on Windows 10, allowing you to get started with Linux today!
1. Oracle VM VirtualBox
Oracle VM VirtualBox is a popular choice for running Linux on Windows 10. It is a free and open-source virtualization platform that allows you to create and manage virtual machines with ease. VirtualBox supports a wide range of operating systems, including various Linux distributions, making it an excellent choice for Linux enthusiasts.
With VirtualBox, you can create a virtual machine, allocate system resources, and install your preferred Linux distribution. It provides seamless integration between the host and guest operating systems, allowing you to share files and folders, use shared clipboard functionality, and even enable drag-and-drop support.
VirtualBox also offers a snapshot feature, which allows you to take a snapshot of your virtual machine at a specific point in time. This feature is handy when you want to experiment with different configurations or software installations without worrying about breaking your system.
2. VMware Workstation Player
VMware Workstation Player is another popular virtualization software that enables you to run Linux on Windows 10. While it offers a paid version with advanced features, the free version, known as VMware Workstation Player, is sufficient for most users.
With VMware Workstation Player, you can create and run virtual machines with ease. It supports a wide range of operating systems, including various Linux distributions, and provides excellent performance and stability. The software also offers features like drag-and-drop support, shared folders, and virtual networking, allowing seamless integration between the host and guest operating systems.
VMware Workstation Player is a great choice for users who require advanced virtualization features and performance. It is widely used by professionals and developers for testing software, running multiple operating systems, and creating virtual development environments.
3. Microsoft Hyper-V
If you are using Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise edition, you have access to Microsoft Hyper-V, a built-in virtualization platform. Hyper-V allows you to create and manage virtual machines on your Windows 10 system, including running Linux distributions.
Hyper-V provides a robust and secure virtualization environment, with features like virtual networking, live migration, and support for high-performance computing. It is well-integrated with the Windows ecosystem and offers excellent performance for running Linux on Windows 10.
While Hyper-V is not as user-friendly as some other virtualization software, it is a powerful option for users who require advanced virtualization capabilities. It is particularly suitable for enterprise environments and developers who need to test software on different operating systems.
4. Parallels Desktop for Windows
If you are a Mac user who also uses Windows 10 through Boot Camp, Parallels Desktop for Windows is an excellent choice for running Linux on your Windows 10 system. Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software specifically designed for Mac users, allowing them to run Windows and other operating systems seamlessly.
With Parallels Desktop for Windows, you can create and run virtual machines with ease. It offers features like Coherence mode, which allows you to run Windows and Linux applications side by side with your Mac applications, and SmartMount, which automatically mounts virtual machine disks on your Mac desktop.
Parallels Desktop for Windows provides excellent performance and integration between the host and guest operating systems. It is a popular choice among Mac users who want to run Linux on their Windows 10 system without sacrificing the Mac experience.
5. QEMU
QEMU is an open-source virtualization platform that provides full system emulation. It allows you to run Linux and other operating systems on your Windows 10 system with excellent performance and flexibility.
QEMU supports a wide range of architectures, including x86, ARM, and PowerPC, making it suitable for running Linux on various hardware platforms. It provides features like dynamic translation, which allows you to run guest code on different host architectures, and hardware acceleration, which improves performance for virtual machines.
While QEMU may not be as user-friendly as some other virtualization software, it offers powerful features and customization options. It is particularly suitable for developers and advanced users who require fine-grained control over their virtual machines.
6. KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine)
KVM, or Kernel-based Virtual Machine, is a virtualization module built into the Linux kernel. It allows you to run Linux and other operating systems on your Windows 10 system with excellent performance and stability.
KVM leverages the hardware virtualization extensions available in modern processors, such as Intel VT-x and AMD-V, to provide hardware-accelerated virtualization. This results in near-native performance for virtual machines running on KVM.
To use KVM on Windows 10, you can install a Linux distribution that supports KVM, such as Ubuntu or Fedora, and then create and manage virtual machines using the KVM command-line tools or graphical frontends like virt-manager.
7. Xen Project
Xen Project is an open-source virtualization platform that provides powerful features and performance for running Linux on Windows 10. It is widely used in enterprise environments and cloud computing platforms.
Xen Project allows you to create and manage virtual machines with ease. It provides features like paravirtualization, which improves performance by allowing guest operating systems to communicate directly with the hypervisor, and live migration, which allows you to move running virtual machines between physical hosts without downtime.
To use Xen Project on Windows 10, you can install a Linux distribution that supports Xen, such as CentOS or SUSE, and then create and manage virtual machines using the Xen command-line tools or graphical frontends like XenCenter.
8. Proxmox VE
Proxmox VE is an open-source virtualization platform that combines KVM and LXC (Linux Containers) to provide a powerful and flexible solution for running Linux on Windows 10. It is particularly suitable for users who require both virtual machines and containers.
Proxmox VE allows you to create and manage virtual machines and containers with ease. It provides features like live migration, high availability, and backup and restore, making it suitable for production environments.
To use Proxmox VE on Windows 10, you can install the Proxmox VE distribution, which is based on Debian, and then create and manage virtual machines and containers using the Proxmox web interface or command-line tools.
9. VMware Fusion
If you are a Mac user who wants to run Linux on your Windows 10 system, VMware Fusion is an excellent choice. VMware Fusion is a virtualization software specifically designed for Mac users, allowing them to run Windows and other operating systems seamlessly.
With VMware Fusion, you can create and run virtual machines with ease. It offers features like Unity mode, which allows you to run Windows and Linux applications side by side with your Mac applications, and Snapshots, which allow you to take a snapshot of your virtual machine at a specific point in time.
VMware Fusion provides excellent performance and integration between the host and guest operating systems. It is a popular choice among Mac users who want to run Linux on their Windows 10 system without sacrificing the Mac experience.
10. Docker Desktop
Docker Desktop is a lightweight virtualization platform that allows you to run Linux containers on your Windows 10 system. It is particularly suitable for developers who want to build, test, and deploy applications using containerization.
With Docker Desktop, you can create and manage containers with ease. It provides a simple and intuitive command-line interface and supports a wide range of Linux distributions and software packages.
Docker Desktop offers features like container networking, which allows you to connect containers together and to the host system, and container volumes, which allow you to persist data between container restarts.
11. Vagrant
Vagrant is a tool for creating and managing virtual development environments. It allows you to define your development environment as code and share it with your team, ensuring consistency and reproducibility.
With Vagrant, you can create and manage virtual machines with ease. It provides a simple and intuitive command-line interface and supports a wide range of virtualization platforms, including VirtualBox, VMware, and Hyper-V.
Vagrant allows you to define your development environment using a Vagrantfile, which specifies the virtual machine configuration, software packages, and network settings. This makes it easy to set up and tear down development environments, ensuring that everyone on your team has the same environment.
12. Genymotion
If you are an Android developer who wants to run Linux on your Windows 10 system, Genymotion is an excellent choice. Genymotion is a virtualization platform specifically designed for Android development, allowing you to run Android virtual devices on your Windows 10 system.
With Genymotion, you can create and manage Android virtual devices with ease. It provides a wide range of pre-configured virtual devices with different Android versions and device configurations, making it easy to test your applications on various devices.
Genymotion offers features like screen recording, GPS simulation, and network simulation, allowing you to test your applications under different conditions. It also provides integration with popular development tools like Android Studio and Eclipse.
13. Virtual PC
Virtual PC is a virtualization software developed by Microsoft. While it is no longer actively developed, it is still a viable option for running Linux on Windows 10, particularly for users who prefer a simple and lightweight virtualization solution.
Virtual PC allows you to create and run virtual machines with ease. It provides features like shared folders, which allow you to share files and folders between the host and guest operating systems, and virtual networking, which allows you to connect virtual machines together and to the host system.
While Virtual PC may not offer the advanced features and performance of some other virtualization software, it is a straightforward option for users who want to run Linux on their Windows 10 system without any complexities.
14. Bochs
Bochs is an open-source virtualization platform that provides full system emulation. It allows you to run Linux and other operating systems on your Windows 10 system with excellent flexibility and customization options.
Bochs emulates the x86 architecture, allowing you to run guest operating systems designed for x86 processors. It provides features like dynamic translation, which allows you to run guest code on different host architectures, and support for various hardware devices.
While Bochs may not offer the performance of some other virtualization software, it is a powerful option for users who require fine-grained control over their virtual machines and want to experiment with different hardware configurations.
15. XCP-ng
XCP-ng is an open-source virtualization platform based on the Xen Project. It provides a powerful and flexible solution for running Linux on Windows 10, particularly for users who require advanced virtualization features and performance.
XCP-ng allows you to create and manage virtual machines with ease. It provides features like live migration, high availability, and support for storage and network virtualization, making it suitable for production environments.
To use XCP-ng on Windows 10, you can install the XCP-ng distribution, which is based on CentOS, and then create and manage virtual machines using the XCP-ng Center or command-line tools.
16. OpenVZ
OpenVZ is an open-source containerization platform that allows you to run Linux containers on your Windows 10 system. It provides a lightweight and efficient solution for running multiple isolated Linux environments on a single host.
OpenVZ allows you to create and manage containers with ease. It provides features like container templates, which allow you to create containers based on pre-configured templates, and live migration, which allows you to move running containers between physical hosts without downtime.
To use OpenVZ on Windows 10, you can install a Linux distribution that supports OpenVZ, such as CentOS or Ubuntu, and then create and manage containers using the OpenVZ command-line tools or graphical frontends like Virtuozzo.
17. LXD (Linux Containers)
LXD, or Linux Containers, is a containerization platform that allows you to run Linux containers on your Windows 10 system. It provides a lightweight and secure solution for running multiple isolated Linux environments on a single host.
LXD allows you to create and manage containers with ease. It provides features like container snapshots, which allow you to take a snapshot of a container at a specific point in time, and live migration, which allows you to move running containers between physical hosts without downtime.
To use LXD on Windows 10, you can install a Linux distribution that supports LXD, such as Ubuntu or Fedora, and then create and manage containers using the LXD command-line tools or graphical frontends like LXDUI.
18. Virtuozzo
Virtuozzo is a commercial containerization platform that allows you to run Linux containers on your Windows 10 system. It provides a powerful and secure solution for running multiple isolated Linux environments on a single host.
Virtuozzo allows you to create and manage containers with ease. It provides features like container templates, which allow you to create containers based on pre-configured templates, and live migration, which allows you to move running containers between physical hosts without downtime.
Virtuozzo offers additional features like resource management, which allows you to allocate system resources to containers, and high availability, which ensures that containers are automatically restarted in case of a failure.
19. GNOME Boxes
GNOME Boxes is a lightweight virtualization platform that allows you to run Linux on your Windows 10 system. It is designed to be simple and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for users who want a hassle-free virtualization experience.
With GNOME Boxes, you can create and run virtual machines with ease. It provides a simple and intuitive graphical interface and supports a wide range of operating systems, including various Linux distributions.
GNOME Boxes offers features like automatic installation, which allows you to install operating systems with a few clicks, and automatic updates, which ensure that your virtual machines are always up to date.
20. Multipass
Multipass is a lightweight virtualization platform that allows you to run Linux on your Windows 10 system. It is designed to be simple and efficient, making it an excellent choice for users who want a lightweight virtualization solution.
With Multipass, you can create and manage virtual machines with ease. It provides a simple command-line interface and supports a wide range of operating systems, including various Linux distributions.
Multipass offers features like cloud-init support, which allows you to configure virtual machines using cloud-init scripts, and automatic updates, which ensure that your virtual machines are always up to date.
In conclusion, there are several excellent virtual machine options available for running Linux on Windows 10. Whether you are a Linux enthusiast, a developer, or an enterprise user, you can find a virtualization platform that suits your needs. From free and open-source options like Oracle VM VirtualBox and QEMU to commercial solutions like VMware Workstation Player and Parallels Desktop for Windows, you have a wide range of choices. So, get started today and explore the world of Linux on your Windows 10 system!
FAQs
1. Can I run Linux on Windows 10 without dual-booting or partitioning my hard drive?
Yes, you can run Linux on Windows 10 using virtualization software. Virtual machines provide a convenient way to run Linux on your Windows 10 system without the need for dual-booting or partitioning your hard drive.
2. Which virtual machine option is the best for running Linux on Windows 10?
The best virtual machine option for running Linux on Windows 10 depends on your specific needs and requirements. Oracle VM VirtualBox, VMware Workstation Player, and Microsoft Hyper-V are popular choices that offer a wide range of features and performance. It is recommended to try out different options and choose the one that suits your needs the best.
3. Can I use virtual machines for software development and testing?
Yes, virtual machines are commonly used for software development and testing. They provide a controlled and isolated environment for developing and testing software, allowing you to experiment with different configurations and software installations without affecting your host system.
Accessing Linux tools and environments on a Windows system can be challenging. Managing dual OS systems, ensuring compatibility, and avoiding data loss during setup are common hurdles.
Finding a seamless way to run Linux alongside Windows is crucial for enhancing productivity.
Many users need Linux-specific tools and applications without replacing their existing OS. Running Linux on Windows lets you explore and utilize Linux environments while keeping the familiarity and functionality of your Windows system.
In this blog, we’ll provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to run Linux on a Windows system. We’ll cover various methods, including using virtual machines, Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), and dual-boot setups.
By understanding these methods, you can successfully run Linux on Windows, leverage Linux tools, and improve your development workflows.
Benefits of Running Linux on a Windows System
Running Linux on a Windows system offers several advantages, particularly for IT professionals and developers. Here are some key benefits:
Access to Linux Tools
Linux provides a range of powerful tools and applications that are essential for development and system administration tasks.
Running Linux on Windows allows you to leverage these tools without needing a separate Linux machine.
Enhanced Development Workflows
Many developers prefer Linux for its robust development environment.
Running Linux alongside Windows enables you to optimize your development workflows, using the best features of both operating systems.
System Compatibility
Running Linux on Windows ensures compatibility with software and hardware that may only support one OS. This dual setup allows for greater flexibility and reduces the need for additional hardware.
Cost Savings
By running Linux on a Windows system, you can avoid the expense of purchasing additional hardware. This setup allows you to maximize the use of your existing resources without incurring extra costs.
Convenience and Flexibility
Running both operating systems on the same machine provides the convenience of switching between environments without rebooting or setting up another physical device.
This flexibility is beneficial for multitasking and managing different projects efficiently. For IT professionals and developers, a dual-OS setup also opens the door to integrating specialized business tools. For instance, using SMS call center software within the Linux environment can streamline customer communications without disrupting workflows on the Windows side. This approach enhances support operations and allows teams to consolidate tasks across platforms—all without the need for additional hardware.
Methods to Run and Install Linux on Windows
There are several methods available to run Linux on a Windows system, each offering different levels of integration and performance. Here are the most popular options:
Using a Virtual Machine
Virtual machines (VMs) allow you to run Linux within a window on your Windows desktop. This method provides a full Linux environment with isolation from the host OS.
VMs are perfect for users who want to test different Linux distributions or run Linux applications without affecting their main system.
Steps to Set Up a VM:
- Download and Install Virtualization Software: Popular options include VMware Workstation, Oracle VM VirtualBox, and Hyper-V. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and robust features to help you create and manage your virtual machines.
- Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian). Make sure to download from the official websites to ensure you get a genuine and secure copy.
- Create a New VM: Open your virtualization software and create a new virtual machine. Allocate resources such as CPU, memory, and storage based on the requirements of your Linux distribution. Most virtualization software provides easy-to-follow wizards to guide you through the setup process.
- Install Linux: Use the ISO file to install Linux on the VM. Follow the installation instructions provided by the Linux distribution. Once the installation is complete, you can start using Linux within the VM environment.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
WSL is a compatibility layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows.
It integrates with the Windows file system and allows you to run Linux command-line tools directly. WSL is ideal for users who need to use Linux tools without the overhead of a full VM or dual-boot setup.
Steps to Set Up WSL:
- Enable WSL: Go to Settings > Update & Security > For Developers and enable “Developer Mode.» This step prepares your Windows system to support WSL.
- Install WSL: Open PowerShell as an administrator and run wsl –install to install WSL and the default Linux distribution (usually Ubuntu). This command will download and set up the necessary components for WSL.
- Choose a Linux Distribution: You can install additional distributions from the Microsoft Store. Simply search for the Linux distribution you want and install it like any other app.
- Launch Linux: Open a terminal and start using Linux commands. You can access the Linux file system directly from Windows and use your preferred Linux tools seamlessly.
Dual-Boot Setup
Dual-booting allows you to install Linux alongside Windows on your machine, giving you the option to boot into either operating system.
This method is suitable for users who want to use both operating systems without the limitations of a VM.
Steps to Set Up Dual-Boot:
- Create a Backup: Ensure you have a backup of your important data. This step is crucial to prevent data loss during the partitioning process.
- Partition Your Drive: Use disk management tools to create a separate partition for Linux. You can use built-in tools like Disk Management in Windows or third-party tools to resize existing partitions and create space for Linux.
- Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution. Ensure you download it from the official website to avoid any security issues.
- Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use tools like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux ISO. This drive will be used to install Linux on your system.
- Install Linux: Boot from the USB drive and follow the installation instructions. Choose the partition you created earlier for the Linux installation. During the setup, you can configure the bootloader to allow you to choose between Windows and Linux at startup.
Using a Live USB
Live USB allows you to run Linux directly from a USB drive without installing it on your hard drive. This is useful for testing or temporary use, providing a risk-free way to explore Linux.
Steps to Set Up a Live USB:
- Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution. Make sure to download it from the official website to ensure authenticity and security.
- Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use tools like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux ISO. This drive will allow you to run Linux without affecting your current system setup.
- Boot from the USB Drive: Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You might need to change the boot order in your BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive. Once booted, you can run Linux directly from the USB drive, allowing you to test and use Linux without any permanent changes to your system.
Conclusion
Running Linux on a Windows system provides access to powerful tools and applications, enhancing development workflows and system compatibility.
By understanding and implementing methods like virtual machines, Windows Subsystem for Linux, dual-boot setups, and live USBs, you can seamlessly integrate Linux into your Windows environment.
Choosing the right method depends on your specific needs and technical expertise. Whether you need a full Linux environment or just access to Linux command-line tools, these methods offer flexibility and functionality.
Explore these options to find the best solution for running Linux on your Windows system.
Why Choose V2 Cloud
While V2 Cloud does not currently offer Linux virtual machines or VDI solutions, we are actively working on expanding our services to include them in the near future. Here’s why V2 Cloud will be the top choice for your virtualization needs:
- Robust Solutions: Our Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solutions enhance IT operations with secure remote access, daily backups, and seamless scalability.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed to be intuitive and easy to use, our platform caters to both beginners and experienced users.
- Outstanding Support: V2 Cloud is known for its excellent customer support, ready to assist you with any issues or questions you may have.
- Cost-Effective: Our pricing plans are competitive and transparent, helping you reduce operational costs while maximizing the value of your investment.
- Security and Compliance: We prioritize data security and compliance with industry standards, ensuring your information is protected at all times.
Keep an eye out for V2 Cloud’s upcoming Linux VM and VDI offerings. In the meantime, sign up for our current VDI services to experience our secure, scalable, and efficient virtual environments.
Get Started with V2 Cloud
Ready to take your IT infrastructure to the next level? Sign up today to experience V2 Cloud’s secure, scalable, and efficient VDI solutions, perfectly tailored to meet your business needs. Talk to a Cloud Expert Now and transform your IT operations.
FAQs about Running Linux on Windows
Here are our most commonly asked questions on how to run Linux on Windows:
What is the easiest way to run Linux on Windows?
The easiest way to run Linux on Windows is using the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). It allows you to run Linux command-line tools directly on Windows without needing a VM or dual-boot setup.
Can I run Linux on Windows without installing it?
Yes, you can run Linux on Windows without installing it by using a Live USB. This method allows you to boot and run Linux directly from a USB drive.
What are the system requirements for running Linux on a Windows machine?
System requirements vary depending on the method. Generally, you’ll need at least 4GB of RAM, sufficient storage space, and hardware virtualization support for VMs.
How do I switch between Linux and Windows in a dual-boot setup?
To switch between Linux and Windows in a dual-boot setup, restart your computer and select the desired operating system from the boot menu.
Is it possible to run graphical Linux applications on Windows using WSL?
Yes, with WSL 2 and the appropriate configuration, you can run graphical Linux applications on Windows. This requires an X server to display the graphical interface.
What should I do if I encounter issues during the installation?
If you encounter issues during the installation, refer to the documentation of the method you are using, check online forums, or contact support for assistance.
Are there any performance differences between running Linux natively and through a VM or WSL?
Yes, there can be performance differences. Running Linux natively offers the best performance, followed by WSL, which is close to native performance. VMs may have slightly lower performance due to resource overhead.
How do I choose the best Linux distribution for my Windows computer?
Choosing the best Linux distribution (Linux distro) for your Windows computer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Popular options include Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian. These distros are user-friendly and compatible with most hardware, making the installation process straightforward.
Can I run multiple operating systems on my Windows computer?
Yes, you can run multiple operating systems on your Windows computer by using a virtual machine or a dual-boot setup. This allows you to install a Linux OS alongside Windows, giving you the flexibility to switch between the two as needed.
What should I know before installing Linux on my Windows computer?
Before installing Linux on your Windows computer, ensure you have a backup of your important data. You’ll also need to create a separate partition for the Linux file system. Once installed, you can access the Linux OS and run Linux-specific applications seamlessly.
How does the Linux file system integrate with a Windows computer?
When installing Linux on a Windows computer, the Linux file system is typically set up on a separate partition. This allows both operating systems to coexist without interfering with each other. Tools like WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) also enable integration, allowing you to access Linux files from Windows.
Installing a Linux virtual machine on Windows 10 has never been easier. With earlier versions of Windows, users only had two options to use Linux.
The first was to go through the struggle of installing a dual-boot operating system if they wanted to toggle between Windows and Linux. That required a USB boot drive and shutting down the Windows OS first.
The other way was to purchase virtual machine software to install the operating system with. Although a more convenient method, the virtualization required a lot of processing power.
On top of that the user needed to download a compatible ISO file to run the operating system.
Now all you need to do to run a Linux VM on Windows 10, is use the Hyper-V capabilities and install Ubuntu inside the Hyper-V manager to launch it at any time with a few clicks.
We also made a video version of this guide on our YouTube channel, if you would rather follow along a video format:
Make sure your PC is capable of running a Linux VM
There are a few requirements to ensure that your PC is able to run the programs necessary. Thankfully it’s a very easy check.
Operating system wise, you need to have either a Pro, Enterprise, or Education version of Windows 10.
In order to check if your machine is capable of running a Linux virtual machine, you first need to open the command prompt.
You can do so by opening the start menu or by pressing the windows key on your keyboard, then typing in ‘cmd‘ and pressing enter.
Type ‘systeminfo‘ into the command prompt and press enter to execute the command. A bunch of information should show up, but you only need to care about the last four lines.
If all of them say Yes, you’re good to go!
Enable Hyper-V on Windows 10
Hyper-V is the key to installing a Linux or Ubuntu VM on Windows 10. It is a built-in alternative to a virtual machine software like VirtualBox.
The Hyper-V takes advantage of a new feature in Windows 10 called Virtual Desktop. If you want to learn more about how to use a Virtual Desktop to toggle between multiple desktops in your work space, check out our article about it.
Virtual Desktop combined with Hyper-V virtualization basically allows you to swap between your normal operating system desktop and a Linux desktop with one press of a button.
This way you can easily toggle between screens, copy text between the systems and much more.
First you need to open your start menu and type in ‘Turn Windows features on or off‘.
Once you see the option, click on it to go to the control panel. You should now see a small window with a bunch of folders with check-boxes next to them.
Look for the folder called ‘Hyper-V‘ and click on the plus next to it to expand its sub-folders.
Tick every box under the Hyper-V folder and click OK.
Windows will the install the required package and included features. After this you will be prompted to restart your PC. You need to actually restart your machine for this to work, so we recommend you bookmark this page and come back when you have restarted.
Starting up Hyper-V Quick Create
Now that you’ve enabled Hyper-V and restarted your machine, you’re ready to run the Ubuntu VM on Windows 10.
Again, open up the start menu by pressing the windows key on your keyboard and type ‘Hyper-V’ into the search bar.
You should see an option called Hyper-V Quick Create, go ahead and start it up.
If you found the icon and it launched fine, you can move on the the next section to install Linux.
Can’t see the Hyper-V Quick Create shortcut?
This seems to be a very common occurrence, it even happened to us when trying to make this work for the first time. Thankfully a little research goes a long way and we’ve done it for you.
First, open up the start menu and look for a folder named Windows Administrative Tools. Look for Hyper-V Quick Create there.
If you can’t find it in the above folder either, that means the tools just aren’t installed. This was the case for us as well.
To fix this, you need to download and install free Remote Server Administrator Tools for Windows 10. It is an official toolkit from Microsoft that should be included with every Windows 10 installation since 2018, but for some reason that is not always the case.
Download one of the installers from the above link and run it. You will need to restart your computer after it’s done.
Once you’ve done that, you should be able to find the Quick Create shortcut in the Windows Administrative Tools folder shown above.
If you can’t see it even after all the above steps, leave a comment below and we’ll help you out.
Install Linux on the Virtual Machine
Now that you’ve found the Quick Create shortcut, a window should pop up which allows you to choose which operating system you wish to download.
Although one of the options is a Windows 10 OS, it’s not a free license for Windows, but an evaluation copy that expires in a few days.
Select Ubuntu Linux from the list and click Create Virtual Machine. Windows will now automatically download and install the operating system.
After that’s done, the virtual Linux operating system will show up in a new window and you can continue on to set it up.
That’s all you need to run Ubuntu Linux fast and simple on Windows 10.
How to launch your Ubuntu Linux Virtual Machine faster
If you want to start up the machine faster, you can do so from the Hyper-V Manager.
You can open it up by typing that into the search bar in the start menu or look for it in the Windows Administrative Tools folder.
Once you open it up, you should be able to see your machine name on the left hand side. Choose it and it should show your newly created Ubuntu operating system in the Virtual Machines Box.
To launch the virtual machine, select it from the list and click on ‘Connect…‘ on the right hand side of the window.
Now your new Ubuntu Linux virtual machine should start up fast and easy.
You can use this same method to install and run any other VM on Windows 10 as well.
If you’re looking for more ways to take advantage of the new Windows 10 features, check out our article on window management on Windows 10.