Install Latest OpenSUSE in VirtualBox

Want to try openSUSE without changing your main operating system? VirtualBox makes it simple. Here’s a straightforward guide to get the latest openSUSE running in a virtual machine in no time.

What You’ll Need

• VirtualBox (download from virtualbox.org)
• openSUSE ISO (download the latest from get.opensuse.org)
• At least 4GB of RAM (8GB+ recommended for smooth experience)
• Enough free disk space (20GB minimum recommended)

1. Download and Install VirtualBox

Head to the VirtualBox downloads page and grab the latest version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Run the installer and follow the prompts.

2. Get the Latest openSUSE ISO

Visit get.opensuse.org. You’ll see options like “Leap” (stable) and “Tumbleweed” (rolling release). Pick the one you want, click “x86_64” for most PCs, and download the ISO file.

3. Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click New.
2. Name your VM (e.g., “openSUSE”).
3. Set Type to “Linux” and Version to “openSUSE (64-bit)” or “Other Linux (64-bit)”.
4. Assign memory—4096 MB (4GB) is a good start.
5. Create a virtual hard disk (VDI, at least 20GB, dynamically allocated).
6. Click Create.

Tip: If you ever need to enlarge your virtual machine’s disk after you’ve set it up, check out this detailed guide: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

4. Attach the openSUSE ISO

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

5. Adjust VM Settings (Optional but Recommended)

• Processors: Under System > Processor, assign at least 2 CPUs if possible.
• Display: Under Display > Video Memory, max it out for better performance.
• Network: Use “Bridged Adapter” if you want the VM to be visible on your network, or stick with default (“NAT”) for most users.

6. Boot and Install openSUSE

1. Start the VM.
2. The openSUSE installer will boot from the ISO. Select Installation.
3. Follow the on-screen steps:
   • Language and keyboard layout
   • Choose your desktop environment (KDE Plasma, GNOME, etc.)
   • Partitioning (default is fine for most users)
   • Set up your user account and password
4. Wait for the installation to complete. When prompted, remove the ISO from virtual drive (Settings > Storage) and restart the VM.

7. Final Setup

• Log in with your new user account.
• Run system updates (use YaST or the terminal: sudo zypper update).
• Install Guest Additions for better performance and clipboard sharing (Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD Image… in VirtualBox menu, then run the installer in openSUSE).

That’s It!

You now have the latest openSUSE running in VirtualBox. Explore, experiment, and enjoy one of the most powerful Linux distributions—risk free!

Need more storage? Check out: How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware.

Questions? Drop them in the comments below. If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow Linux explorers!

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!