How to install Ubuntu 18.04.6 LTS (Bionic Beaver) on VirtualBox

Want to run Ubuntu 18.04.6 LTS (Bionic Beaver) on your Windows or macOS machine without dual-booting? VirtualBox makes it easy. This guide walks you through the process—no fluff, just the steps you need.

What You Need

• VirtualBox: Download it here
• Ubuntu 18.04.6 LTS ISO: Get it here
• At least 20 GB free disk space
• At least 2 GB RAM (more is better)

Step 1: Install VirtualBox

1. Download VirtualBox for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
2. Run the installer and follow the prompts.
3. Launch VirtualBox when done.

Step 2: Download the Ubuntu 18.04.6 ISO

Go to the official Ubuntu releases page and download the desktop ISO file.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. In VirtualBox, click New.
2. Name your VM (e.g., “Ubuntu 18.04.6”).
3. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “Ubuntu (64-bit)”.
4. Click Next.

Step 4: Set Memory Size

• Choose 2048 MB (2 GB) or more.
• Click Next.

Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

1. Select Create a virtual hard disk now.
2. Click Create.
3. Pick VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image), then click Next.
4. Select Dynamically allocated (saves disk space).
5. Set the size (at least 20 GB). Click Create.

Tip: Not sure how much disk space you need, or want to resize your virtual machine’s disk later? Check out this guide: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 6: Mount the Ubuntu ISO

1. Select your new VM, then click Settings.
2. Go to Storage.
3. Under Controller: IDE, click the empty disk icon.
4. On the right, click the disk icon, then Choose a disk file…
5. Select your Ubuntu ISO file.

Step 7: Start the VM and Begin Installation

1. Select your VM, then click Start.
2. The VM will boot from the ISO. Choose Install Ubuntu.

Step 8: Install Ubuntu

1. Follow the on-screen prompts:
   • Choose your language.
   • Select your keyboard layout.
   • Pick “Normal installation”.
   • Check “Download updates while installing” (optional).
2. Installation type: Select “Erase disk and install Ubuntu” (this erases the virtual hard disk—not your real drive!).
3. Set your timezone.
4. Enter your name, computer name, username, and password.

Step 9: Let the Installation Finish

• Wait for the process to complete.
• When prompted, click Restart Now.
• If the system asks to remove installation media, just press Enter (VirtualBox auto-ejects the ISO).

Step 10: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (Optional but Recommended)

1. With your VM running, click Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image…
2. Open the terminal in Ubuntu and run:
   sudo apt update
sudo apt install build-essential dkms linux-headers-$(uname -r)
3. Run the Guest Additions installer:
   sudo sh /media/$USER/VBox_GAs_*/VBoxLinuxAdditions.run
4. Reboot the VM.

You’re Done!

Now you have Ubuntu 18.04.6 LTS running in VirtualBox. You can experiment, code, or just poke around—all in a safe, virtual sandbox.

Need help? Drop your questions in the comments!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!