How to Install Windows 11 on VirtualBox: The Ultimate Guide

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How to Enable Virtualization on Windows 11

Enabling virtualization on Windows typically involvesgoing into the BIOSor UEFI settings and enabling support, which may vary depending on your PC’s specific make and model. Follow the steps below.

Note: We are running on an ASUS machine with an AMD Ryzen 7 processor. The steps may vary depending on the manufacturer you are working with.

Step 1:Restartyour computer and press theboot key.

Note: The boot key varies depending on the manufacturer. You can look up the boot key for your motherboard, manufacturer, or model number online.

Step 2:Press F7to go to Advanced Mode.

Step 3: Under Advanced Mode, go toAdvancedand clickCPU Configuration.

Step 4:Enable SVM Modefrom the drop-down menu.

Note: If you are on an Intel processor, enable Intel (VMX) Virtualization Technology.

Step 5: Finally, pressF10> clickOKto reboot the system.

With this, you have enabled virtualization on your Windows PC. You are all set to move forward with setting up a virtual machine. Move to the next step in the process.

How to Download the Windows 11 ISO File for VirtualBox

If you already have a Windows 11 ISO file, you may skip this step and move on to the next step. However, if you don’t, download Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website. Follow along.

Step 1: Go toMicrosoft’s websiteto download the Windows 11 ISO.

Step 2: Scroll down and, under Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO), selectWindows 11 (multi-edition ISO)from the drop-down, and clickDownload.

Step 3: It will validate, and in the next prompt,select the languageyou prefer from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Press theConfirmbutton.

With this, Windows 11 will start getting downloaded. The total size of the file is 5.17 GB. Once it is downloaded, move on to the next step, where we will create the virtual machine.

Note: VirtualBox 7.0 includes Secure Boot and TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 1.2/2.0 support, allowing Windows 11 to run on virtual machines without registry hacks. However, VirtualBox requires a secure boot, or TPM, to run the virtual machine. Ensure that these features are enabled on the host system and that the virtual machine is configured to use them.

How to Create a New Virtual Machine for Windows 11

There are many software options, such as VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V (not for Home Editions), Oracle VM VirtualBox (free), and Parallel Desktop (paid). We will be using Oracle’s VirtualBox. So, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Go toOracle’s VirtualBox, download, and install the application.

Step 2: Once installed, openVirtualBoxand click onNew.

Step 3: Now, set anamefor the Windows 11 virtual machine. E.g., Windows 11

Step 4: Click on thedrop-down menunext to the ISO Image option and select theWindows 11 ISO image fileyou have downloaded.

Step 5: Check the box forSkip Unattended Installation, and clickNext.

Step 6: Modify the virtual machine’s hardware. Check the box next toEnable EFI (special OSes only)and clickNext.

Note: CheckWindows 11’s minimum requirementsbefore allocating hardware. You need at least 4GB RAM, 64GB storage space, and a 1 gigahertz (GHz) processor or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.

Step 7: On the next screen, selectCreate a Virtual Hard Disk Now,allocate at least 64GB of storage space, and clickNext.

Note: If you have more disk space, allocate more for better storage capability and performance.

Step 8: Finally, go through the summary page and clickFinish.

That’s it. You have set up VirtualBox for the Windows 11 installation. Now comes the objective’s final move. Let’s install Windows 11.

How to Install Windows 11 in VirtualBox

Step 1: OpenOracle VirtualBox> click onWindows 11(or the name you have set) > and clickStart.

Step 2: After a few seconds, the Windows Setup window will appear. Select thelanguageto install, the time, and the input method, and clickNext.

Step 3: Click onInstall nowand follow the usual instructions to set it up.

FAQs

Yes, it is. VirtualBox is a safe and reliable virtualization platform that works with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 11.

VirtualBox is safe and unlikely to damage your PC. However, there is a small chance that you may run into problems or conflicts if you don’t use it carefully or if you get it from an unreliable source.

VirtualBox does not provide any built-in features to mask or change your IP address. So, anyone trying to track you will still be able to see it.

Although virtual machines can be somewhat useful in preventing hackers, they are not foolproof. Since a virtual machine runs in a completely different environment than your main operating system, malicious software installed on that machine can’t access or affect your main operating system.

The use of antivirus software is generally recommended, regardless of whether it is installed on your computer or virtual machine.

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Last updated on 19 August, 2024

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