How To Install Lubuntu On Virtualbox On Windows – Latest Version

Want a fast, lightweight Linux OS on your Windows PC? Lubuntu is a solid choice, especially if you’re looking to revive old hardware or just want a simple, no-fuss system. The good news: you don’t need to wipe your main OS to try it out. Using VirtualBox, you can run Lubuntu in a window, side-by-side with your usual Windows apps. Here’s how to do it with the latest versions.

What You’ll Need

• Windows PC (any modern version)
• VirtualBox (free, from virtualbox.org)
• Lubuntu ISO (get the latest from lubuntu.me/downloads)

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

1. Go to virtualbox.org.
2. Click “Download VirtualBox.”
3. Choose the Windows version.
4. Run the installer and follow the prompts. Default options are fine for most users.

Step 2: Download the Latest Lubuntu ISO

1. Visit lubuntu.me/downloads.
2. Click the latest “Desktop” version.
3. Save the ISO file somewhere easy to find, like your Desktop.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox.
2. Click “New.”
3. Name your VM (e.g., Lubuntu).
4. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “Ubuntu (64-bit)” (even though it’s Lubuntu, this is correct).
5. Click “Next.”

Step 4: Set Memory (RAM)

• Lubuntu runs fine with 2 GB (2048 MB), but you can set more if you have extra RAM.
• Click “Next.”

Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

1. Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now.”
2. Click “Create.”
3. Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) and click “Next.”
4. For storage, pick “Dynamically allocated.”
5. Set size to at least 15 GB (more if you have room).
6. Click “Create.”

Need a bigger virtual disk later?
Check out How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Step 6: Mount the Lubuntu ISO

1. Select your new VM in VirtualBox.
2. Click “Settings.”
3. Go to the “Storage” tab.
4. Under “Controller: IDE,” click the empty disc icon.
5. On the right, click the disc icon next to “Optical Drive” and select “Choose a disk file…”
6. Find and select your Lubuntu ISO.

Step 7: Start the VM and Install Lubuntu

1. With your VM selected, click “Start.”
2. Lubuntu will boot from the ISO.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts:
   • Choose your language.
   • Select “Install Lubuntu.”
   • Follow the guided install process. You can accept most defaults since this is a virtual machine.
   • Set your username and password.
   • Let the installation finish (it may take a few minutes).

Step 8: Remove the ISO and Reboot

1. After installation, Lubuntu will prompt you to remove the installation media.
2. In VirtualBox, go to the top menu, click “Devices” > “Optical Drives” > “Remove disk from virtual drive.”
3. Press Enter in Lubuntu to reboot.

Step 9: Enjoy Lubuntu!

Your new Lubuntu VM should now boot straight into the desktop. You’re ready to explore, install apps, and get to work. You can resize the VirtualBox window or switch to full screen for a more natural experience.

Want Lubuntu or Ubuntu full screen in VirtualBox?
Check out How to Make Ubuntu Full Screen on VirtualBox in Windows 10 for a quick step-by-step guide.

Quick Tips

• Shared Clipboard: In VirtualBox, go to “Devices” > “Shared Clipboard” > “Bidirectional” to copy and paste between Windows and Lubuntu.
• Guest Additions: For better performance and integration, install VirtualBox Guest Additions. In the VM, go to “Devices” > “Insert Guest Additions CD image,” then follow the instructions inside Lubuntu.

That’s it. You’ve got Lubuntu running on your Windows machine, all without messing up your main system. Experiment, explore, and see what Lubuntu can do for you!

If you run into any issues, drop a comment below—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!