How to install latest Q4OS in VirtualBox

Q4OS is a lightweight Linux distribution known for its speed and efficiency. If you want to try it out without touching your main system, VirtualBox is a great solution. Here’s how to get the latest Q4OS up and running in VirtualBox—step by step.

1. Download the Latest Q4OS ISO

Go to the official Q4OS download page and grab the ISO for your system. For most people, the “Live” or “Install CD” 64-bit version works best.

2. Install VirtualBox (If Needed)

If you don’t have VirtualBox yet:

• Windows/macOS: Download it from virtualbox.org and install.
• Linux: Use your package manager (sudo apt install virtualbox on Ubuntu/Debian).

3. Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click “New.”
2. Name your VM “Q4OS.”
3. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “Debian (64-bit).”
4. Click “Next.”

4. Assign Memory

• Set RAM to at least 2048 MB (2 GB) for best results. Q4OS is light, but more RAM is better if you can spare it.

5. Create a Virtual Hard Disk

• Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now.”
• Set the disk size to at least 15 GB.
• Type: “VDI” (VirtualBox Disk Image).
• Storage: “Dynamically allocated.”
• Click “Create.”

If you ever need to expand your VM’s hard disk later, check out this guide: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

6. Mount the Q4OS ISO

1. Select your new VM in VirtualBox.
2. Click “Settings,” then “Storage.”
3. Under “Controller: IDE,” click the empty disk icon.
4. On the right, click the disk icon next to “Optical Drive” and choose “Choose a disk file…”
5. Select your downloaded Q4OS ISO.

7. Start the VM and Install Q4OS

1. Click “Start.”
2. The VM will boot from the ISO. Follow the on-screen prompts to install Q4OS:
   • Choose your language and keyboard.
   • Set your timezone.
   • Partition your virtual hard disk (default/automatic is fine).
   • Create your user account and password.
   • Let the installer finish.

8. Remove the ISO and Boot from Hard Disk

After installation, before rebooting:

• Go to “Devices” > “Optical Drives” > “Remove disk from virtual drive.”
• Reboot your VM.

Now, Q4OS should boot from your virtual hard disk.

9. Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (Recommended)

For better performance and extra features (like full-screen, shared folders):

1. With Q4OS running, in the VirtualBox menu, select Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image.
2. Open a terminal and run:
   sudo apt update
sudo apt install build-essential dkms linux-headers-$(uname -r)
3. Run the Guest Additions installer from the CD (you might see an icon on the desktop, or run sudo sh /media/cdrom/VBoxLinuxAdditions.run).

All Set!

You now have Q4OS running safely in VirtualBox. Questions or issues? Drop 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!