How to Install and Use VirtualBox on Your Chromebook

Ensure you allocate sufficient hardware

VirtualBox lets yourun multiple operating systems on your computerin virtual machines. The virtualization software supports Windows, Linux, macOS, Solaris, and FreeBSD devices. Although VirtualBox doesn’t support ChromeOS, you can run the virtualization software on Chromebooks through the Linux environment.

VirtualBox is open-source, free, and easy to install. We’ll show you how to install VirtualBox and use it to run guest operating systems on your Chromebook.

Enable Linux Development Environment

Connect your Chromebook to the internet and follow the steps below. Jump to the next section if you already have the Linux development environment set up on your Chromebook.

Wait while your Chromebook downloads and sets up the Linux virtual machine. The operation takes 10-30 minutes, depending on your Chromebook model and internet speed.

You might get a prompt to update your Chromebook if its operating system is out-of-date.

Select theOpen Settingsbutton (or head toSettings>About ChromeOS) and selectCheck for updatesorRestart.

Your Chromebook should automatically open a Terminal window when it successfully configures the Linux environment. Proceed to the next section to install VirtualBox for Linux version on your Chromebook.

Install VirtualBox on Your Chromebook

Since VirtualBox doesn’t support ChromeOS, installing the Linux version in your Chromebook’s Linux environment is the only workaround. It’s a straightforward process that takes less than 5 minutes.

Check the installation progress in the bottom corner of your Chromebook’s display.

Install Virtual Machines on Your Chromebook Using VirtualBox

VirtualBox lets you create virtual machines that run Windows, Linux, Solaris, macOS, Unix—seeall VirtualBox-supported OS. We’ll use VirtualBox to install a Windows 8.1 virtual machine on our test Chromebook for this tutorial. The steps and procedures might vary per operating system.

Alternatively, selectMachineon the menu bar and chooseNew.

Contact the guest OS developer or check their website if you’re unsure about OS system/hardware requirements. For instance, if you’re installing Windows 11, you’ll find itssystem requirements on Microsoft’s website.

Pro Tip:You can run Windows applications in ChromeOS without installing a guest OS or virtual machine. Emulators or “compatibility layer apps” like Wine or CrossOver let you install Windows-based apps on Chromebooks. Refer to our tutorial on installing/running Windows apps on Chromebooks for instructions.

Run Multiple OS on Your Chromebook

Installing VirtualBox on Chromebooks is a straightforward process. Running guest operating systems in VirtualBox is even easier. Although the virtualization software works best on computers with powerful processors, it’s stable on budget Chromebooks with mid-range hardware.

Ensure you allocate sufficient hardware (RAM, storage, processor core, etc.) to the guest operating system. If yourChromebook runs slowwhen using VirtualBox, closing unneeded applications or browser tabs can help speed things up.

Sodiq has written thousands of tutorials, guides, and explainers over the past 4 years to help people solve problems with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. He also enjoys reviewing consumer tech products (smartphones, smart home devices, accessories, etc.) and binge-watching comedy series in his spare time.Read Sodiq’s Full Bio

Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of tech tips from trusted tech experts. We have thousands of articles and guides to help you troubleshoot any issue. Our articles have been read over 150 million times since we launched in 2008.

HomeAbout UsEditorial StandardsContact UsTerms of Use

Copyright © 2008-2024 Help Desk Geek.com, LLC All Rights Reserved