How to install Windows Server 2022 on VirtualBox

Setting up Windows Server 2022 in a virtual environment is a smart way to test, learn, or run lightweight workloads without extra hardware. VirtualBox is a free, open-source virtualization tool that makes this easy on Windows, Mac, or Linux.

Here’s how you can install Windows Server 2022 on VirtualBox, start to finish.

What You’ll Need

VirtualBox installed on your machine. Download here.
Windows Server 2022 ISO file. You can get an evaluation copy from Microsoft’s website or use this direct link from Archive.org.
At least 4 GB RAM and 30 GB free disk space on your computer.

Step 1: Install VirtualBox

Download VirtualBox from the official site and run the installer.
Follow the prompts and complete the installation.
Launch VirtualBox after installation.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine

Click New in the VirtualBox toolbar.
Name your VM (e.g., “Windows Server 2022”).
Set Type to “Microsoft Windows” and Version to “Windows 2019 (64-bit)”. (There’s no 2022 option, but 2019 works fine.)
Click Next.

Step 3: Allocate Memory (RAM)

Choose at least 4096 MB (4 GB). More is better if your system allows.

Step 4: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

Select Create a virtual hard disk now.
Click Create.
Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) and click Next.
Select Dynamically allocated (lets the disk grow as needed) and click Next.
Set disk size: at least 32 GB recommended.
Tip: If you ever need more space, here’s how to enlarge a Virtual Machine’s disk in VirtualBox or VMware.
Click Create.

Step 5: Attach the Windows Server 2022 ISO

With the VM selected, click Settings.
Go to Storage.
Under “Controller: IDE,” click the empty disc icon.
On the right, click the disc icon next to “Optical Drive” and choose Choose a disk file…
Select your Windows Server 2022 ISO file.

Step 6: Configure Network (Optional)

In Settings > Network, you can choose Bridged Adapter (makes your VM visible on your network) or leave it as NAT (default, works for most cases).

Step 7: Start the VM and Begin Installation

Click Start to power on the VM.
The Windows Server installer will launch.
Follow the on-screen prompts:
- Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences.
- Click Install now.
- Choose the edition (Desktop Experience includes GUI).
- Enter a product key or choose “I don’t have a product key” for evaluation.
- Accept license terms.
- Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
- Select the unallocated space and click Next.

Step 8: Complete Installation

Windows Server will copy files and reboot several times.
Set an administrator password when prompted.

Step 9: Make VirtualBox Full Screen (Recommended)

After installation, you might notice the VM isn’t using your whole screen.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to make VirtualBox full screen for Windows 11 (or 10), macOS, and Linux VMs.

Step 10: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions

Once on the Windows Server desktop, click Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image in the VirtualBox window.
Run the installer from the CD drive inside the VM.
Restart the VM when done. This improves graphics, mouse, and clipboard integration.

Final Tips

Don’t forget to activate Windows Server 2022 if you plan to use it long-term.
Create a snapshot in VirtualBox so you can revert if anything goes wrong.

That’s it! You now have Windows Server 2022 running inside VirtualBox, ready for testing, learning, or development.

Got questions or run into problems? Leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

Useful Resources:

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!