Install Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (Resolute Raccoon) on VirtualBox

If you’re ready to test-drive Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (Resolute Raccoon), installing it in VirtualBox is a smart way to explore it safely. This step-by-step guide will help you set it up — from downloading the ISO to running it full screen with smooth performance.

🔗 Quick Links

• 🐧 Download Ubuntu 26.04 LTS ISO: cdimage.ubuntu.com/daily-live/current
• 💾 Get VirtualBox: virtualbox.org
• 🖥️ Make Ubuntu Full Screen in VirtualBox: YouTube Tutorial
• 💡 Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk (VirtualBox/VMware): YouTube Tutorial

Why Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Matters

Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, codenamed Resolute Raccoon, is Canonical’s next Long-Term Support release, expected in April 2026.
LTS releases are supported for five years — making them ideal for developers, testers, and anyone who prefers stability. Installing it in a virtual machine gives you all the benefits of early access without touching your main system.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• VirtualBox installed — Download it here.
• At least 4 GB RAM and 25 GB disk space for smooth performance.
• The Ubuntu 26.04 LTS ISO from cdimage.ubuntu.com/daily-live/current.
• Basic familiarity with VirtualBox VM creation.

Step 1: Create the Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox, click New.
2. Name: Ubuntu 26.04 LTS
   • Type: Linux
   • Version: Ubuntu (64-bit)
3. Allocate 4096 MB (4 GB) RAM or more.
4. Create a VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) — dynamically allocated, size ≥ 25 GB.
5. Open Settings → System, disable EFI (unless you need it), and assign at least one CPU core.
6. Under Display, set Video Memory to 128 MB, and enable 3D Acceleration.
7. Under Storage, mount the Ubuntu 26.04 ISO file you downloaded.
8. Adjust Network as desired (NAT is fine for most users).

Step 2: Boot and Install Ubuntu

1. Start the VM — it will boot from the ISO.
2. Choose Install Ubuntu.
3. Select language, keyboard layout, and install options.
4. Choose Erase disk and install Ubuntu (this affects only the VM’s virtual drive).
5. Set your timezone, username, and password.
6. Wait for installation to finish and reboot when prompted.

Step 3: First Boot & System Update

Once Ubuntu boots:

1. Remove the ISO from Devices → Optical Drives → Remove disk image.
2. Update your system:
   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
3. Reboot to finalize updates.

Step 4: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions

Guest Additions improve performance, resolution, and clipboard sharing.

1. In the VM window, go to Devices → Insert Guest Additions CD image…
2. Run these commands inside Ubuntu:
   sudo apt install build-essential dkms linux-headers-$(uname -r) -y
sudo ./VBoxLinuxAdditions.run
3. Reboot when done.

Now you can resize your VM window — or go full screen easily using this guide:
👉 How to Make Ubuntu Full Screen in VirtualBox (YouTube)

Step 5: Optional — Expand Virtual Machine Storage

Running out of disk space later? You can increase it safely.
Watch this video for a full walkthrough:
👉 How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware

Step 6: Post-Install Tips

• Install your favorite apps via apt or the Ubuntu Software Center.
• Create a snapshot in VirtualBox for easy recovery.
• For shared folders, add your user to the vboxsf group.
• Enable auto-updates for security.
• Experiment with display scaling and 3D acceleration for smoother visuals.

Troubleshooting Quick-Fixes

Wrap-Up

You’ve now installed Ubuntu 26.04 LTS (Resolute Raccoon) inside VirtualBox — fully updated, full-screen, and ready to roll.
This setup gives you a safe, isolated environment for exploring Ubuntu’s latest features without affecting your main OS.

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!