How to install Latest MX Linux on VirtualBox VM

Thinking about trying MX Linux but don’t want to mess with your main system? VirtualBox makes it easy to run MX Linux in a safe, isolated environment. Here’s how to get it done, step by step.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox installed on your system
• The latest MX Linux ISO (download here)
• About 20GB free disk space

Step 1: Download the MX Linux ISO

Go to the official MX Linux download page and grab the latest 64-bit ISO file. Save it somewhere you can find easily.

Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine

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

Step 3: Allocate RAM and Hard Disk

• Memory Size: 2GB (2048MB) is good, more if you have it.
• Hard Disk: Create a virtual hard disk now. 20GB is a safe minimum.
• Stick with VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) and Dynamically allocated for storage.

Step 4: Mount the MX Linux ISO

1. With your VM selected, click Settings.
2. Go to Storage.
3. Under “Controller: IDE,” click the empty disk icon.
4. On the right, click the disk icon and select Choose a disk file…
5. Pick the MX Linux ISO you downloaded.

Step 5: Start the VM and Boot Into MX Linux

• Click Start.
• The VM will boot from the ISO. You’ll see the MX Linux live session menu.
• Hit Enter to start MX Linux (default options are fine).

Step 6: Launch the Installer

Once you reach the MX Linux desktop:

1. Double-click “Install MX Linux” on the desktop.
2. Follow the installer prompts:
   • Choose your language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
   • Set up your partitions (use defaults unless you have a reason not to).
   • Enter user details (username, password).

Step 7: Complete Installation and Reboot

• When the installer finishes, remove the ISO from the virtual drive:
  1. Go to Devices > Optical Drives in the VM menu.
  2. Uncheck the ISO file.
• Reboot the VM.

That’s it. You’re running MX Linux on VirtualBox!

Tips for a Smoother Experience

• Install VirtualBox Guest Additions inside MX Linux for better performance, clipboard sharing, and dynamic screen resizing.
• Take VM snapshots after you’ve got things set up—restores are quick if something breaks.

Final Thoughts

MX Linux is light, fast, and easy to test in a virtual machine. Whether you’re exploring Linux for the first time or want a reliable Debian-based OS for development, running MX in VirtualBox is a low-risk, high-reward way to try it out.

Got stuck or have 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!