VirtualBox is a cool software. You can use it to run multiple guest operating systems (Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, Ubuntu, Fedora and many others) from one host machine at the same time ( if the host can handle the load). The host machine is the one that you’ll install VirtualBox software on, and the guest machines are the ones created within VirtualBox Software.
It is a great tool to have if you’re planning to run and test different operating systems without needing individual machine to run each.
I use it everyday to run my machines which includes, Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Ubuntu 12.04, Ubuntu 13.04, all from a single Windows 7 computer. The host machine could be any OS. But I prefer Windows 7.
So, this brief tutorial is going to show you how to install VirtualBox Guest Additions software inside a Ubuntu guest machine and enable bidirectional clipboard sharing ( copying and pasting content from the guest to the host machine or vice versa).
To get started, open VirtualBox, select the guest machine you wish to edit and click ‘Settings’
Mine is Ubuntu 13.04 Raring Ringtail.
Next, select the ‘Advanced’ tab and enable Shared Clipboard: (Bidirectional)
Save and close out. When you’re done, start the guest machine and sign into Ubuntu. When you login, press Ctrl – Alt – T on your keyboard to open the terminal. When it opens, run the commands below to install the guest machine software for Ubuntu.
Run this commands to update your system and install essential tools to support the guest machine software.
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install build-essential linux-headers-$(uname -r)
Finally, run the commands below to install the guest machine software.
sudo apt-get install virtualbox-ose-guest-x11
Restart your computer. After restarting, you should be able to copy and paste text from the host machine to the guest and vice versa.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to enable bidirectional clipboard sharing in VirtualBox Ubuntu guest machine?
To enable bidirectional clipboard sharing in VirtualBox Ubuntu guest machine, open VirtualBox, select the guest machine, go to 'Settings', choose the 'Advanced' tab, and enable Shared Clipboard: (Bidirectional). Save the settings and start the guest machine.
What are the steps to install VirtualBox Guest Additions software in Ubuntu?
To install VirtualBox Guest Additions software in Ubuntu, first open the terminal in the guest machine, update the system, and install essential tools using 'sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install build-essential linux-headers-$(uname -r)'. Then, install the VirtualBox Guest Additions software using 'sudo apt-get install virtualbox-ose-guest-x11'. Restart the computer after installation.
How can I run multiple guest operating systems using VirtualBox on a single host machine?
To run multiple guest operating systems using VirtualBox on a single host machine, install VirtualBox software on the host machine, create guest machines within VirtualBox, and select the desired guest machine to run. This allows you to test different operating systems without needing individual machines.
Which operating systems are compatible with VirtualBox for running as guest machines?
VirtualBox supports a variety of guest operating systems including Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7, Ubuntu, Fedora, and many others. You can run these guest operating systems on VirtualBox from a compatible host machine.
Why use VirtualBox Guest Additions software in Ubuntu guest machines?
VirtualBox Guest Additions software enhances the performance and usability of Ubuntu guest machines by providing additional features like seamless mouse integration, shared folders, and improved video support. It is recommended for a better virtual machine experience.
What is the benefit of enabling Shared Clipboard in VirtualBox Ubuntu guest machines?
Enabling Shared Clipboard in VirtualBox Ubuntu guest machines allows bidirectional copying and pasting of content between the guest and host machines. This feature enhances productivity and simplifies data transfer between the virtual and host environments.
How to update the system and install essential tools for VirtualBox Guest Additions in Ubuntu?
To update the system and install essential tools for VirtualBox Guest Additions in Ubuntu, open the terminal, run 'sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install build-essential linux-headers-$(uname -r)', and follow the on-screen prompts. These steps ensure a smooth installation process.
What are the recommended system requirements for running VirtualBox Guest Additions in Ubuntu?
The recommended system requirements for running VirtualBox Guest Additions in Ubuntu include having sufficient memory, processing power, and disk space to support the virtual machine. Ensure that your host machine meets these requirements for optimal performance.
