How to Install Latest BunsenLabs Linux on Virtualbox

Want to try BunsenLabs Linux without touching your main system? VirtualBox makes it easy. Here’s how to set it up step-by-step, even if you’re new to Linux or virtualization.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox (free, runs on Windows, Mac, or Linux)
• BunsenLabs Linux ISO (download from the official site)
• At least 2GB RAM and 10GB disk space free

1. Download BunsenLabs Linux

Head to the BunsenLabs download page and grab the latest stable ISO. Make sure to note where you save it.

2. Install VirtualBox

If you don’t have VirtualBox:

• Download it from virtualbox.org
• Install it as you would any other program

3. Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click New.
2. Name it “BunsenLabs Linux” (the name can be anything).
3. Set Type: Linux
4. Set Version: Debian (64-bit) (BunsenLabs is based on Debian)
5. Click Next.

4. Set Up Memory and Disk

• Memory Size: 2048 MB (2GB) or more if you can
• Create a Virtual Hard Disk Now: Yes
  • VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image): Default
  • Dynamically allocated: Recommended
  • Disk size: At least 10GB
    • Tip: If you need more space later, follow this guide: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Click Create.

5. Mount the BunsenLabs ISO

1. Select your new VM and click Settings.
2. Go to Storage.
3. Under Controller: IDE, click the empty CD icon.
4. On the right, click the CD icon and select Choose a disk file.
5. Find and select the BunsenLabs ISO you downloaded.

Click OK.

6. Boot and Install

1. With the VM selected, hit Start.
2. The VM will boot from the ISO. Follow the on-screen instructions to install BunsenLabs.
   • Choose your language and region.
   • Set up your user account and password.
   • Partitioning: The default options are fine for most users (use entire disk).
3. Let the installer finish. This will take a few minutes.

7. Remove ISO and Reboot

After installation:

• Shut down the VM.
• Go to Settings > Storage again.
• Remove the ISO from the virtual drive (set it to “Empty”).
• Start the VM. Now you’ll boot into your fresh BunsenLabs install.

8. (Optional) Install VirtualBox Guest Additions

To improve graphics, copy/paste, and shared folders:

1. With your VM running, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD Image.
2. Open a terminal in BunsenLabs and run:
   sudo apt update
sudo apt install build-essential dkms linux-headers-$(uname -r)
3. Run the Guest Additions installer from the mounted CD.

Restart the VM for the changes to take effect.

Want full screen mode in Ubuntu or similar Linux VMs? Here’s a step-by-step tutorial:
How to Make Ubuntu Full Screen on VirtualBox in Windows 10 and Windows 11

That’s It!

You’re now running BunsenLabs Linux in VirtualBox. Use it to explore, experiment, and see what this lightweight distro can do—without risk to your main OS.

Have questions or run into issues? 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!