How to Install Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server on VirtualBox

Installing Ubuntu Server on VirtualBox is a great way to set up a safe, test-friendly environment on your existing machine. Here’s how to get Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server running on VirtualBox from scratch.

What You Need

• VirtualBox installed (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
• Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server ISO file (Direct download here).
• At least 2GB RAM and 15GB free disk space on your PC.

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

1. Go to the VirtualBox website.
2. Download the latest version for your OS.
3. Install it by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Download Ubuntu Server ISO

1. Get the Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server LTS ISO directly from this link.
2. Save the .iso file somewhere easy to find.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox.
2. Click New.
3. Name your VM (e.g., “Ubuntu Server 22.04.4”).
4. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “Ubuntu (64-bit).”
5. Click Next.

Step 4: Configure RAM and Hard Disk

1. Memory Size: Allocate at least 2048 MB (2 GB).
2. Hard Disk: Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click Create.
3. Disk Type: Stick with “VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).”
4. Storage on Physical Hard Disk: Choose “Dynamically allocated.”
5. Disk Size: Set at least 15 GB (20 GB recommended).
   • Need more space later? Check out How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 5: Attach the Ubuntu ISO

1. Select your new VM in the left panel.
2. Click Settings > Storage.
3. Under “Controller: IDE,” click the empty disk icon.
4. On the right, click the disk icon next to “Optical Drive,” then choose “Choose a disk file.”
5. Browse and select your Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server ISO file.

Step 6: Start the Virtual Machine

1. With your VM selected, click Start.
2. The VM will boot from the ISO and start the Ubuntu Server installer.

Step 7: Install Ubuntu Server

Follow the on-screen instructions:

1. Select Language and keyboard layout.
2. Network setup: Use default unless you need custom networking.
3. Configure Storage: Use “Use an entire disk.” Confirm the changes.
4. Profile Setup: Enter your name, server name, username, and password.
5. SSH Setup: (Optional) Install OpenSSH if you plan to connect remotely.
6. Featured Server Snaps: Skip unless you know you need something.

The installation will take a few minutes.

Step 8: Remove ISO and Reboot

1. When prompted, reboot the system.
2. If you see a message to “remove installation media,” go to Devices > Optical Drives in the VM menu and uncheck the ISO.
3. Press Enter to finish rebooting.

Step 9: Log In

1. After reboot, you’ll see the Ubuntu login prompt.
2. Enter the username and password you set up during installation.

That’s it—your Ubuntu 22.04.4 Server is ready to use on VirtualBox!

Optional: Install a Desktop Environment

Want a graphical interface? Follow this guide:
How to Install a Desktop Environment/GUI in Ubuntu Server

Final Tips

• Take a snapshot in VirtualBox now, so you can restore your server if you mess something up.
• Keep your system up to date:
  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
• Use the server to practice Linux, run services, or test software safely.
• Need to grow your virtual disk later? Here’s how to enlarge your VM’s disk.

Got questions? Drop them 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!