How to Install Latest Kubuntu on VirtualBox

Looking to try out Kubuntu without touching your current setup? VirtualBox makes it easy. This guide will walk you through installing the latest Kubuntu version as a virtual machine on your Windows, Mac, or Linux system. No prior Linux experience required—just follow along.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox (Free download from virtualbox.org)
• Kubuntu ISO (Get it from the official Kubuntu downloads page)
• About 20 GB free disk space
• 4 GB RAM (minimum, more is better)

Step 1: Download VirtualBox and Kubuntu ISO

1. Download VirtualBox:
   Head to virtualbox.org and grab the latest version for your operating system. Install it with the default options.
2. Download Kubuntu ISO:
   Go to the Kubuntu download page. Download the latest LTS release for stability, or the most recent version for the newest features.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine

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

Step 3: Assign RAM and Hard Disk

1. Memory size:
   Allocate at least 4096 MB (4 GB) of RAM if you can. Don’t go below 2048 MB.
2. Hard disk:
   • Select Create a virtual hard disk now.
   • Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).
   • Select Dynamically allocated.
   • Set size to at least 20 GB.
   • Click Create.

Step 4: Configure the Virtual Machine

Before starting, tweak a few settings for better performance.

1. Select your new Kubuntu VM and click Settings.
2. Go to System > Processor and assign at least 2 CPUs.
3. Go to Display > Screen and bump Video Memory to the max.
4. Go to Storage, click the empty optical drive, then click the disc icon on the right.
   Choose “Choose a disk file…” and select your downloaded Kubuntu ISO.

Step 5: Start the VM and Install Kubuntu

1. Click Start to boot your new VM.
2. When the Kubuntu installer appears, pick “Install Kubuntu”.
3. Follow the on-screen steps:
   • Language: Pick your language.
   • Keyboard: Choose your layout.
   • Updates and other software: It’s fine to leave the defaults.
   • Installation type: Choose Erase disk and install Kubuntu (don’t worry—this only erases the virtual disk).
   • Time zone: Select yours.
   • User info: Set your username and password.
4. Let the installer run. When done, restart the VM as prompted.

Step 6: (Optional) Install Guest Additions

This step improves performance and enables features like full-screen mode and clipboard sharing.

1. With your VM running, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image.
2. Follow the prompts inside Kubuntu to install.
3. Reboot the VM.

Need More Disk Space Later?

If you ever run low on space inside your virtual machine, you don’t need to start over. You can expand your VM’s disk size at any time.
Check out this straightforward guide:
How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware

You’re All Set!

You’ve now got Kubuntu running safely in VirtualBox. Play around, install apps, and explore without fear—your main system stays untouched.

Questions? Drop them in the comments 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!