Installing Linux on a Windows PC using Virtualisation (Hypervisor Guide)

Linux is one of the most powerful and flexible operating systems available today. Many developers, system administrators, and cloud enthusiasts prefer Linux for its open-source nature, security, and compatibility with servers.

But what if you are a Windows user and want to explore Linux without removing or dual-booting your existing OS? The answer lies in Virtualisation – using a Hypervisor to run Linux inside Windows like a separate computer.

In this article, I’ll guide you step by step on how to install Linux on your Windows PC using a hypervisor such as VirtualBox or VMware Workstation Player.

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🔑 What is Virtualisation?

Virtualisation is a technology that allows you to create and run multiple operating systems (called Virtual Machines) on a single physical computer.

A Hypervisor (Virtual Machine Manager) is the software that enables virtualisation by managing these virtual machines.

Popular hypervisors include:

• Oracle VirtualBox (Free & Open Source)

• VMware Workstation Player (Free for personal use)

• Hyper-V (Built into Windows Pro/Enterprise editions)

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💻 Why Install Linux on Windows via Virtualisation?

• ✅ No risk of losing Windows data (unlike dual boot)

• ✅ Run Linux and Windows side by side

• ✅ Great for learning Linux commands, scripting, and server setup

• ✅ Easy to delete or reset Linux if needed

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🛠️ Prerequisites

Before we start, make sure you have:

1. Windows PC (with at least 8GB RAM recommended)

2. Hypervisor software (VirtualBox or VMware)

3. Linux ISO file (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, etc. – download from official website)

4. Enough disk space (20GB+ free storage)

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⚡ Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Enable Virtualization in BIOS

1. Restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (press F2, Del, or Esc depending on your manufacturer).

2. Locate Intel VT-x or AMD-V option and enable it.

3. Save and exit BIOS.

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Step 2: Install a Hypervisor

• Download and install VirtualBox from virtualbox.org
  OR

• Install VMware Workstation Player from vmware.com

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Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox/VMware.

2. Click New → Enter a name (e.g., “Ubuntu VM”).

3. Select Linux as the type and choose the version (e.g., Ubuntu 64-bit).

4. Allocate memory (at least 2GB, preferably 4GB+).

5. Create a virtual hard disk (20GB+ recommended).

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Step 4: Mount the Linux ISO

1. Select your newly created VM.

2. Go to Settings → Storage.

3. Add the downloaded Linux ISO file as a virtual CD/DVD drive.

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Step 5: Boot and Install Linux

1. Start the Virtual Machine.

2. It will boot into the Linux installer.

3. Choose Install Linux.

4. Follow the on-screen steps:

   • Select Language & Keyboard layout

   • Set up Username & Password

   • Allocate storage (use default guided installation)

5. Wait for installation to complete.

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Step 6: Start Using Linux

• After installation, restart the VM.

• Log in with your username and password.

• You now have a fully functional Linux system running inside Windows! 🎉

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⚙️ Tips for Better Performance

• Install Guest Additions (VirtualBox) or VMware Tools to enable better graphics, copy-paste, and file sharing.

• Allocate more RAM and CPU cores if your PC allows.

• Use Shared Folders for easy file transfer between Windows and Linux.

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🎯 Conclusion

Installing Linux on Windows through virtualization is the safest and easiest way to get hands-on experience with Linux. Whether you’re a beginner exploring commands or a cloud enthusiast practicing server setups, a Linux VM is the perfect playground.

👉 Next step: Try experimenting with Linux commands, setting up servers, or even simulating cloud environments directly on your PC!

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