The latest version of Ubuntu allows users to install Ubuntu inside of their existing Windows OS by using wubi. This allows the user to utilize Ubuntu without messing with partitioning, which is an added boon for many computer users. While this is all fine and dandy, I suggest flipping this scenario around and install Microsoft Vista or XP inside of Ubuntu by using VirtualBox.
The process of installing a different operating system inside of Ubuntu is actually very, very simple. By following these easy steps, you will have an alternative computer operating system available for your use without having to repartition your hard drive.
- Get VirtualBox - I have limited experience using virtual systems, but for the times I have dabbled in it I have used VirtualBox. It works great and does what needs to be done. You can download the .deb package here.
- Set It Up - You will now need to create a virtual hard drive and set some specifics for it. This includes the OS type, allocated disk space and memory, etc..
Enter a name for the new virtual disk and the operating system type. For this, I chose to name the virtual drive “test” and chose Windows Vista as the OS type. Click next
You need to allocate how much memory the virtual drive will have. Vista requires a good amount of memory, and since my computer has 3 gigs of RAM, I had no problem allocating approx. 1.5 gigs of memory to the virtual system. Systems vary, so adjust this to suit your needs. Then click next
Now you need to create the virtual hard disk. From this screen click on “New”
You have the option of having a virtual hard disk with either a fixed size or a dynamic size. I chose to have a dynamically expanding virtual hard disk as I don’t know all what I will use Vista for. Later down the road I may need my virtual Vista system to have more hard disk space so I will leave the option open for that.
For this step I found that the default settings are good. Just click to the next step
You’re almost done! Verify that the settings are correct and click “Finish”.
After you have finished setting up your virtual drive, you will arrive back to the main screen. On the right hand side there are features that can be configured. What you will need to do is enable your CD or DVD drive in your virtual OS. Click on “CD/DVD-ROM” to enable the mounting of your optical drive. Check the appropriate device and click “OK”. You are now ready to install Vista!
- Install Vista - Load your Vista disk into your CD drive and then click “Start” from the main VirtualBox screen. You will be taken through the install process, and when it’s done you should have a fully functional Vista system within your existing Ubuntu system. One note though, you will probably have to install the Guest Additions to your newly created Vista system in order for it to “grab” your mouse. Installation is simple, just follow the prompts from the menu.
Here is what your finished system will look like:
One final note: By adjusting your VirtualBox window to “Fullscreen”, you will make it so that Vista appears to be the only thing running on your computer. The Ubuntu panels and titlebars will be covered by the fullscreen workings of your virtual Vista system.
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