Multiple OS Computing with Virtualbox

Run any operating system as a client on any other system.

Virtualbox is slicker than wet ice on wet ice! It uses more system resources than WINE, but offers complete compatibility with the virtualized operating system. Obtaining it was a no-brainer, since it was already included in my Linux distribution. The repositories have it, and it is available for download from its developers. One difference with Wine is that Virtualbox does require the user to have the installer / system disc for any operating system (or systems) the user wants to install. Fortunately, I had my Windows XP DVD handy, and created a virtual hard drive with Windows XP installed. Virtualbox creates a large file in the /home folder representing the virtualized system. You can make any number of "virtual systems" and boot them at will!

Another excellent feature of virtualbox is the ability to run a live CD or DVD from the image. I have tested numerous live Linux distros this way, and also debugged customized discs without burning any real discs.

Installing Windows XP was similar to installing it on an actual PC, and took about fifteen minutes. To use my newly virtualized XP, start I started Virtualbox, then selected and "booted" the new system. A screen came up and the virtual computer booted. When the desktop appeared, the virtual system was ready to use. I installed my training applications, downloaded some Windows Updates, experimented with some software defined radio GUIs (Winrad and Spectravue), while noting the new functionality in my Linux PC. Guess what? The fonts in my FMS trainer were perfect.

Virtualbox OSE operating in Linux, with Windows XP ready to start.

The Windows XP welcome screen in Virtualbox OSE.

Virtualbox worked well in Windows, providing the ability to run Kbuntu, Knoppix, and other distributions conveniently in a Windows environment. In one instance, I had two different virtual machines up and running. Though my system resources were heavily taxed, it worked!

Two diferent Linux virtual machines operating under Windows XP.