How to Install Ubuntu Cinnamon on VirtualBox

Running Ubuntu Cinnamon in VirtualBox is a great way to test-drive this sleek Linux desktop without touching your main system. Here’s how to get Ubuntu Cinnamon up and running in no time.

What You Need

• VirtualBox installed on your computer (Download here)
• Ubuntu Cinnamon ISO (Download the latest release)
• At least 4GB RAM and 20GB free disk space recommended

Step 1: Set Up a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click New.
2. Name your VM something like Ubuntu Cinnamon.
3. Set Type to Linux and Version to Ubuntu (64-bit).
4. Click Next.

Step 2: Configure Memory and Hard Disk

1. Memory Size: Set at least 2048 MB (2GB). If you can spare more, go for 4096 MB (4GB) for smoother performance.
2. Hard Disk:
   • Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click Create.
   • Pick VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image), click Next.
   • Select “Dynamically allocated”.
   • Set at least 20GB disk size, click Create.

Tip: If you ever need more space later, you can enlarge your virtual machine’s disk. Here’s a full guide: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 3: Load the Ubuntu Cinnamon ISO

1. Select your new VM in the left panel and click Settings.
2. Go to Storage.
3. Click the empty disk icon under “Controller: IDE”.
4. On the right, click the disk icon next to “Optical Drive”, choose Choose a disk file.
5. Select the Ubuntu Cinnamon ISO you downloaded.
6. Click OK to close settings.

Step 4: Start the Installation

1. With your VM selected, click Start.
2. The VM will boot from the ISO. Choose Install Ubuntu Cinnamon.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions:
   • Choose language, keyboard layout.
   • For “Installation type”, select “Erase disk and install Ubuntu Cinnamon”. (Don’t worry, this only affects your virtual hard drive.)
   • Set up your username and password.
4. Click Install Now, then confirm and wait for the installation to finish.

Step 5: Final Steps

1. Once installation is done, you’ll be prompted to Restart.
2. Before restarting, remove the ISO:
   • Click “Devices” > “Optical Drives” > Remove disk from virtual drive.
3. Hit Enter to reboot the VM.

Step 6: Enjoy Ubuntu Cinnamon!

Your VM should now boot straight into Ubuntu Cinnamon’s desktop.
Log in with your credentials and explore.

Tips for Better Performance

• Enable 3D Acceleration: Go to your VM’s Settings > Display > Screen, and tick “Enable 3D Acceleration”.
• Install Guest Additions: With your VM running, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image. Follow prompts inside Ubuntu for seamless mouse, better display, and clipboard sharing.

That’s it! You’re all set to test and play with Ubuntu Cinnamon inside VirtualBox—risk free.

If you run into issues or have questions, leave a comment below!

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!