How to Install Elementary OS 7.1 Codenamed Horus on Virtualbox

Elementary OS 7.1 “Horus” is one of the most polished and beginner-friendly Linux distributions available today. If you want to try it out without installing it on your main system, running it on VirtualBox is a safe, easy option. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started.

What You’ll Need

VirtualBox installed on your computer
The Elementary OS 7.1 “Horus” ISO (free download)
At least 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended)
At least 20 GB free disk space

Step 1: Download the Elementary OS ISO

Go to the Elementary OS 7.1 “Horus” download page (archive.org, free).
Download the ISO file to your computer.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox

Open VirtualBox and click “New”.
Name your VM (e.g., elementary-os-7.1) and set the Type to “Linux” and Version to “Ubuntu (64-bit)” (elementary OS is based on Ubuntu).
Click “Next”.

Step 3: Assign RAM

Allocate at least 2048 MB (2 GB) of RAM. If you have extra, give it more (4096 MB recommended for better performance).
Click “Next”.

Step 4: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” and click “Create”.
Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) and click “Next”.
Choose “Dynamically allocated” and click “Next”.
Set the disk size to at least 20 GB (more if you can).
Click “Create”.

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

Step 5: Mount the Elementary OS ISO

Select your new VM and click “Settings”.
Go to Storage.
Under “Controller: IDE”, click the empty disc icon, then click the disc icon on the right and choose “Choose a disk file…”.
Select the elementary OS 7.1 ISO you downloaded earlier.
Click “OK”.

Step 6: Configure (Optional, but Recommended)

Processor: Under “System” > “Processor”, allocate at least 2 CPUs if your system allows.
Display: Under “Display”, increase “Video Memory” to 128 MB.
Network: The default NAT is fine for most users.

Step 7: Start the Virtual Machine

Select your VM and click “Start”.
The VM will boot from the ISO. Select “Try or Install elementary OS”.

Step 8: Install Elementary OS

Click “Install elementary”.
Follow the on-screen instructions:
- Choose your language and region.
- Select “Erase disk and install elementary OS” (this only erases the virtual disk, not your main system).
- Set your username and password.
Wait for the installation to complete. The VM will prompt you to restart.
Remove the ISO: After shutdown, go to VM “Settings” > “Storage” and remove the ISO from the virtual drive.

Step 9: Boot and Explore

Start your VM again. You’ll boot into a fresh install of elementary OS 7.1.
Log in with the credentials you set.
Enjoy exploring elementary OS “Horus” in VirtualBox.

Tips for Better Performance

Enable “3D Acceleration” in VirtualBox Display settings.
Increase the RAM and CPU allocation if you notice lag.
Install VirtualBox Guest Additions for better integration (screen resizing, clipboard sharing).

Final Thoughts

Trying out elementary OS in VirtualBox is a great way to explore its clean design and features without changing your main system. If you ever need more disk space, don’t forget the How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware guide.

Have questions or run into issues? Drop them in the comments—I’m here to help!

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!