Run VirtualBox from a USB Drive

For those without hard disk space

Running out of hard disk space because of the virtual machines you created for running other operating systems? There is a solution that does not require increasing your internal hard disk space.

Previously, we have written about how toHow to install Ubuntu in VirtualBox. We have now discovered thatVirtualBoxis available in a portable version that you can install on a USB Drive. Download Portable-VirtualBox fromvbox.me. The file is a self-extracting .zip file.

Install Portable VirtualBox

Run the executable you downloaded and extract the contents of the file to your external USB drive.

A Portable-VirtualBox folder is created on your USB drive. Navigate to thePortable-VirtualBoxfolder and double-click thePortable-VirtualBox.exefile.

The Portable-VirtualBox dialog box displays. Select the options you want (the four check boxes) and click theDownload installation file of VirtualBoxbutton.

A notification displays over the dialog box…

as well as in theSystem Trayat the bottom of the screen.

Once the download is finished, a dialog box displays informing you where the downloaded file is located.

In the Portable-VirtualBox folder, you will see aVirtualBox.exefile. However, do not run this file.

Double-click on thePortable-VirtualBox.exefile again. The Portable-VirtualBox dialog box displays again. Select the desired options. However, this time, click theSearch Filebutton and select theVirtualBox.exefile. ClickOK.

The program files and folders are extracted to the Portable-VirtualBox folder.

Double-click on thePortable-VirtualBox.exefile again. The mainVirtualBoxwindow displays.

NOTE:You may see a registration screen first. You don’t have to register, but the screen will display every time you open VirtualBox until you register. There does not seem to be an option to stop VirtualBox from asking you to register.

When you create new virtual machines they are automatically stored in thedatafolder in the Portable-VirtualBox folder on your USB drive.

Now you can create virtual machines on your USB drive just like you would on your internal hard drive. Enjoy!

Founder of Help Desk Geek and managing editor. He began blogging in 2007 and quit his job in 2010 to blog full-time. He has over 15 years of industry experience in IT and holds several technical certifications.Read Aseem’s Full Bio

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Run VirtualBox from a USB Drive#

Install Portable VirtualBox#