How to Install Manjaro Linux on VirtualBox
VirtualBox is a powerful virtualization software that allows you to run operating systems within your current operating system. This is useful for testing new software, learning new operating systems, or simply running applications that are incompatible with your host OS. Manjaro Linux is a user-friendly Linux distribution that is great for both beginners and experienced users.
This article will guide you through the steps of installing Manjaro Linux on VirtualBox. Let's get started!
Prerequisites:
- VirtualBox: You'll need to download and install VirtualBox on your host system. The official website offers downloads for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Manjaro Linux ISO: You will need to download the Manjaro Linux ISO image. Choose the edition that best suits your needs. You can find the latest ISO on the official Manjaro website.
Creating a Virtual Machine:
- Open VirtualBox: Launch VirtualBox on your computer.
- Create a new Virtual Machine: Click the "New" button.
- Give your Virtual Machine a name: Choose a descriptive name for your Manjaro VM.
- Select the operating system: Choose "Linux" and then "Other Linux (64-bit)" for Manjaro.
- Allocate memory: You should allocate at least 2GB of RAM for your virtual machine. More is always better, especially if you plan on running demanding applications.
- Create a virtual hard disk: Choose "Create virtual hard disk now" and then select "VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image)" as the hard disk file type.
- Allocate disk space: You will need at least 20GB of space, but you can allocate more if needed.
- Choose hard disk type: Select "Dynamically allocated" for a smaller initial disk size that will grow as needed.
Setting up the Virtual Machine:
- Select the new VM: After creating the VM, you should see it listed in the VirtualBox window. Select it.
- Configure settings: Click the "Settings" button.
- Network: Go to the "Network" settings and enable "Bridged Adapter" to allow the VM to access your network.
- Storage: Go to the "Storage" settings and click the "Empty" drive under "Controller: IDE."
- Choose the Manjaro ISO: Click the "Choose Disk" button and browse to the location of your Manjaro ISO image.
- Boot settings: Click the "Start" button to boot up the VM.
Installing Manjaro:
- Boot from the ISO: The VM should boot from the Manjaro ISO. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Select your language: Choose your preferred language.
- Choose the installation type: Select "Install Manjaro."
- Choose the partition: Select the appropriate partition for Manjaro to be installed. Be careful to choose the correct partition so that you don't accidentally overwrite your host OS.
- Choose your time zone: Select your time zone.
- Choose your keyboard layout: Select your keyboard layout.
- Create your user account: Create a username and password for your Manjaro installation.
- Start the installation: After confirming your selections, the installation process will begin. This might take a few minutes.
- Reboot: Once the installation is complete, your VM will reboot.
Log in to Manjaro:
Once the VM boots up, you will be presented with the Manjaro login screen. Enter the username and password you created during the installation process to log in.
Tips for Installing Manjaro on VirtualBox:
- Use a fast SSD: Using a fast SSD as the virtual disk can significantly improve performance.
- Allocate sufficient RAM: As mentioned before, allocate at least 2GB of RAM for your VM. More is better if you plan on running demanding applications.
- Install Guest Additions: Installing VirtualBox Guest Additions on Manjaro can improve performance, graphics, and mouse integration. This can be done by accessing the VirtualBox menu within the VM and selecting "Insert Guest Additions CD image."
- Update and install necessary software: After installation, it's recommended to update the system and install necessary software.
Conclusion:
Installing Manjaro Linux on VirtualBox is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can have a fully functional Manjaro Linux environment running on your host system. It allows you to experience the benefits of Manjaro without the need to partition your hard drive or dual-boot your system.