How to Install LMDE 6 (Linux Mint Debian Edition) on VirtualBox

Linux Mint Debian Edition (LMDE) 6 is a sleek, fast, and lightweight alternative to the Ubuntu-based Linux Mint. If you’re curious about it or want to test it without installing on bare metal, VirtualBox is the perfect sandbox. Here’s how to get LMDE 6 up and running in a virtual environment—step by step.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox installed (from virtualbox.org)
• LMDE 6 ISO file (from linuxmint.com)
• At least 20 GB of free disk space
• Minimum 2 GB RAM (4 GB+ recommended)

Step 1: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox.
2. Click “New”.
3. Name it something like LMDE 6.
4. Set Type to Linux, and Version to Debian (64-bit).
5. Click Next.

Step 2: Allocate RAM

• Assign at least 2048 MB (2 GB). If your system allows, go for 4096 MB for better performance.
• Click Next.

Step 3: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

• Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” → Click Create.
• Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) → Click Next.
• Choose Dynamically allocated → Click Next.
• Set the size to at least 20 GB → Click Create.

Tip: If you later find that you need more space, here’s how to enlarge your virtual machine’s disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 4: Attach the LMDE 6 ISO

1. With your VM selected, click Settings → go to Storage.
2. Under “Controller: IDE”, click the empty disk icon.
3. On the right, click the disk icon → Choose a disk file…
4. Select the LMDE 6 ISO you downloaded.
5. Click OK.

Step 5: Start the Virtual Machine

1. Click Start.
2. LMDE 6 will boot into the live environment.
3. Choose “Start LMDE 6”.

Step 6: Install LMDE 6

1. On the desktop, double-click “Install Linux Mint”.
2. Follow the installation wizard:
   • Language: Pick your language.
   • Time Zone: Set your location.
   • Keyboard: Select your layout.
   • Disk: Choose the default partitioning (erase and install on the virtual disk).
   • User Info: Set your username, password, and computer name.
3. Click Install and wait. It usually takes 10–15 minutes.

Step 7: Reboot and Remove ISO

1. When installation finishes, click Restart Now.
2. When prompted, remove the ISO:
   • Close the VM → Go to Settings > Storage.
   • Click the disk under IDE controller and choose Remove disk from virtual drive.
3. Start the VM again—this time you’ll boot into your new LMDE 6 system.

Optional Tweaks

• Install Guest Additions: For better screen resolution and seamless integration.
  • With the VM running, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD Image.
  • Follow the prompts inside the VM.
• Update the system: Open Terminal and run:
  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Final Thoughts

LMDE 6 is a solid choice for those who want a Debian base with Mint’s signature polish. Running it in VirtualBox lets you explore it safely and easily. Whether you’re testing or prepping for a full install, this setup gets you going in under 30 minutes.

Got questions or ran into issues? Drop a comment below—I’ll help you sort it out.

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!