How to Install Arch Linux on VirtualBox Using the Guided Installer

Arch Linux has a reputation for being complex to install, but things have gotten much easier. Thanks to the Arch guided installer, you can set up a clean Arch system in minutes—even as a beginner. Here’s a step-by-step guide on installing Arch Linux on VirtualBox using the guided installer.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox installed on your computer
• Arch Linux ISO (download the latest version from archlinux.org/download)

Step 1: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click “New”.
2. Name your VM (e.g., “Arch Linux”).
3. Set the type to Linux and version to Arch Linux (64-bit).
4. Allocate RAM: 2GB (2048MB) or more is recommended.
5. Create a virtual hard disk: At least 15GB (VDI, dynamically allocated is fine). Need more storage later? Learn how to enlarge a Virtual Machine’s disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 2: Mount the Arch ISO

1. Select your new VM and click “Settings”.
2. Go to “Storage”.
3. Under “Controller: IDE”, click the empty disk icon.
4. Click the disk icon on the right and choose “Choose a disk file…”.
5. Select the downloaded Arch Linux ISO.

Step 3: Boot and Start the Guided Installer

1. Start your VM.
2. At the Arch Linux boot menu, select the default option and press Enter.
3. Wait for the live environment to load.
4. At the prompt, type: archinstall and press Enter.

Step 4: Use the Guided Installer

The archinstall script will launch a text-based menu. Here’s what you’ll see and what to select:

• Language: Default is “en_US”, but pick your preference.
• Keyboard layout: Default “us” is fine unless you need something different.
• Drive selection: Choose your virtual drive (should be the only one listed). Warning: This will erase the disk. Since it’s a VM, that’s what you want.
• Disk layout: Select “Erase disk” unless you want a custom setup.
• Filesystem: “ext4” is the standard choice for most users.
• Bootloader: “systemd-boot” or “GRUB” (either works for VMs).
• Hostname: Name your VM (e.g., “arch-vm”).
• Root password: Set a password you’ll remember.
• User account: Add a user and password (recommended).
• Profile: “desktop” for a graphical interface, or “minimal” for CLI only.
• Desktop environment: If you chose “desktop”, pick one (e.g., GNOME, KDE).
• Network: DHCP is default and usually works.
• Mirror region: Pick your location for faster downloads.
• Additional packages: Optional; you can add later.
• Review: The installer will show your choices—double-check them.
• Install: Confirm to start installation.

Step 5: Reboot and Remove ISO

• Once installation finishes, you’ll see a message to reboot.
• Shut down the VM.
• Go to “Settings” > “Storage” and remove the Arch ISO from the virtual drive.
• Boot your VM. You should see the Arch login screen.

Step 6: First Boot

• Log in with the user account you created.
• If you chose a desktop profile, the graphical environment will load.
• Update your system: sudo pacman -Syu

Done! You Now Have Arch Linux Running in VirtualBox

Arch Linux is now installed, and you didn’t have to fuss with manual partitioning or complicated shell commands. The guided installer is fast, simple, and perfect for experimenting or learning Arch in a safe virtual environment.

If you need more space in your VM later, check out this guide:
How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware

If you run into issues, check out the Arch Wiki—it’s the best resource for troubleshooting and tips.

Questions? Drop a comment below! If you want a follow-up on installing VirtualBox Guest Additions or setting up a shared folder, let me know.

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!