Run Linux Mint in a virtual machine

[Cap]

How can I run Linux Mint in a virtual machine? Should I install Virtualbox in Software Manager?

[AndyMH]

Don't install the version in software manager. Download the debs from oracle or follow their instructions for debian based systems installation on this page
https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Linux_Downloads

where it says

Code: Select all

deb [arch=amd64] https://download.virtualbox.org/virtualbox/debian <mydist> contrib

<mydist> = bionic if running LM19.x, xenial if running LM18.x.

[Cap]

or follow their instructions for debian based systems installation

Does that add a PPA?

[AndyMH]

No, it adds a repository. It will appear in 'additional repositories' in software manager.

[Cap]

Is it better to download the deb file or add the repository and use sudo apt-get install?

[AndyMH]

Add the repository and install as instructed. Installing this way means you get updates, if you install from a deb you don't.

First post by gm10 in this topic tells you how to do it:
viewtopic.php?f=47&t=307595&p=1754953&h ... x#p1754953
four commands, one at a time, in a terminal.

[Cap]

Installing this way means you get updates

Does that mean I get updates in Update Manager?

[AngryDavid 808]

Installing this way means you get updates

Does that mean I get updates in Update Manager?

Yes, repositories allow the Update Manager to detect, download, and install updates of VirtualBox for you. You don't have to do all of this manually every time there's a new version. Also, keep in mind that the Software Manager has outdated versions of most programs on it. So, it's better to grab your software from official sites.

[pbear]

Also, keep in mind that the Software Manager has outdated versions of most programs on it. So, it's better to grab your software from official sites.

Only true sometimes, albeit true with respect to VirtualBox.* As a general rule, though, installing directly from official sites should be avoided because Mint is stable release and newer versions of apps often have dependencies which conflict with the package base. The recommended solution, if you want/need a newer version of an app than is supported in the Mint/Ubuntu repo is to use a Flatpak, AppImage, or Snap version (similar to portable apps in Windows), which carries those dependencies separately, available to the app in a sandbox but not installing them to the host system.

* Also works with most internet browsers.

[vladtepes]

I'm not sure what the OP is specifically wanting to do, so unsure if this is the same as my question.

I have a windows computer and will install virtualbox (Windows version).
I then want to create VNM and install Linux Mint to that virtual machine.
Is this still the correct process? (its dated 2018) https://techooid.com/install-linux-mint-virtual-machine

[Pierre]

that Tutorial, is still basically correct, however:
- your Host machine should have 8Gb of available memory
- the LinuxMint Guest should have at 50% of that memory & 50Gb virtual drive, as well.

the latest version of the VirualBox software is now 64bit only
https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads