VirtualBox: The Ultimate Virtualization Software for Tech Enthusiasts
VirtualBox, developed by Oracle Corporation, offers a robust virtualization platform for running multiple operating systems on a single machine.
VirtualBox, developed by Oracle Corporation, is a powerful and versatile virtualization software that enables users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine simultaneously.
One of the key features of VirtualBox is its ability to create virtual machines (VMs) that can run a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, MacOS, and more. This flexibility allows users to experiment with different operating systems or run specific applications that may not be compatible with their primary OS.
VirtualBox provides a user-friendly interface for managing VMs, allowing users to easily set up new virtual machines, configure hardware settings such as memory and CPU allocation, and install guest operating systems from ISO images or physical discs.
Users can run multiple VMs concurrently within VirtualBox, making it easier to test software compatibility, simulate network environments, or isolate specific tasks within separate virtualized environments.
VirtualBox also supports features such as snapshots, which allow users to save the current state of a VM and revert back to it later if needed. This feature is particularly useful for testing software changes or for creating backup points before making significant system modifications.
Furthermore, VirtualBox offers seamless integration between host and guest operating systems through shared folders and clipboard integration, making it easy to transfer files and data between the virtualized environment and the host system.
Whether you are a software developer needing to test applications across multiple platforms, a system administrator looking to create sandbox environments for testing configurations, or simply a curious user wanting to explore different operating systems, VirtualBox provides a reliable and robust virtualization solution with a wealth of features to meet your needs.
Overview
VirtualBox is a Shareware software in the category Desktop developed by Oracle Corporation.
It was checked for updates 32,358 times by the users of our client application UpdateStar during the last month.
The latest version of VirtualBox is 7.1.6, released on 01/21/2025. It was initially added to our database on 05/08/2008. The most prevalent version is 7.1.4, which is used by 46% of all installations.
VirtualBox runs on the following operating systems: Android/iOS/Windows/Mac/Linux.
Users of VirtualBox gave it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
Pros
- Supports a wide range of operating systems as guests, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and more
- Feature-rich with support for snapshots, virtual networking, and USB device support
- Free and open-source software
- Regular updates and bug fixes from Oracle Corporation
- Provides easy-to-use GUI for managing virtual machines
Cons
- Performance can sometimes be slower compared to other virtualization software like VMware
- Requires a fair amount of system resources, including CPU and RAM
- Some advanced features are only available in the paid version (Oracle VM VirtualBox Extension Pack)
- Limited support for running 3D applications or games in virtual machines
FAQ
What is VirtualBox?
VirtualBox is a software that allows users to run multiple operating systems (guest OS) on a single computer (host OS) simultaneously.
Is VirtualBox free to use?
Yes, VirtualBox is completely free to download and use.
What operating systems are supported by VirtualBox?
VirtualBox supports a variety of operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Solaris.
How do I install an operating system on VirtualBox?
To install an operating system on VirtualBox, you need to create a new virtual machine, attach the installation media (CD/DVD or ISO file), and follow the installation wizard.
Can I run VirtualBox on a headless server?
Yes, VirtualBox can be run on a headless server without the need for a graphical user interface.
What are snapshots in VirtualBox?
Snapshots allow you to take a "snapshot" of the current state of a virtual machine, allowing you to revert back to that state at any time.
Can I use VirtualBox for commercial purposes?
Yes, VirtualBox may be used for personal or commercial purposes.
What are the system requirements for running VirtualBox?
The system requirements for VirtualBox depend on the guest operating system you plan to run. However, as a general rule, you should have a fairly modern computer with a decent amount of RAM and disk space.
Are there any alternatives to VirtualBox?
Yes, there are several alternatives to VirtualBox, including VMware, Parallels Desktop, and Hyper-V.
Is VirtualBox suitable for beginners?
Yes, VirtualBox is suitable for beginners as it provides an easy-to-use graphical user interface and comprehensive documentation.
Pete Milner
I'm Pete, a software reviewer at UpdateStar with a passion for the ever-evolving world of technology. My background in engineering gives me a unique insight into the intricacies of software, allowing me to provide in-depth, knowledgeable reviews and analyses. Whether it's the newest software releases, tech innovations, or the latest trends, I'm here to break it all down for you. I work from UpdateStar’s Berlin main office.
Latest Reviews by Pete Milner
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01/21/2025 | ImBatch 7.6.3 |
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