How to Install Debian OS in VirtualBox: 2025 Beginner’s Guide

Installing a new operating system might sound complicated—but it doesn’t have to be. With VirtualBox, you can run Debian Linux right inside your current operating system without making any permanent changes. It’s like having a second computer inside your main one.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to install Debian OS in VirtualBox, even if it’s your first time trying something like this.

What You’ll Need Before Getting Started

Before we dive into the installation, make sure you have the following:

• Oracle VirtualBox installed
• Debian ISO file (Download from debian.org)
• At least 50 GB free disk space
• Minimum 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended)

Step-by-Step: How to Install Debian OS in VirtualBox

Step 1: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click “New”.
2. Name it Debian
3. Folder: Choose where you want to save the virtual machine files.
4. ISO Image: Choose the ISO file of Debian OS from where you’ve downloaded it.
5. Set Type to Linux and Subtype to Debian and Version to Debian (64-bit).
6. Skip Unattended Installation: If this option is not disabled then check this option to skip the automatic installation.
7. Now ignore the Unattended Installation Section and Click on Hardware.

Allocate Hardware Resources

• Base Memory: Assign at least 4096 MB (4 GB) of RAM.
• Processors: Set CPUs to 4 or more (depending on your hardware).
• Click on Hard Disk.

Create a Virtual Hard Disk

• Choose “Create a virtual hard disk now”.
• Select VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).
• Keep Unchecked Pre-allocate Full Size option for save space.
• Set the disk size to at least 20 GB.
• Click Finish.

Step 2: Start the Virtual Machine

• Click Start in VirtualBox.
• Debian installer will launch.

Step 3: Follow the Debian Installation Wizard

1. Select Install or Graphical Install.
2. Choose your language, location, and keyboard layout.
3. Set your hostname (e.g., debian os) and Domain Name (Leave this blank or add something like local).
4. Configure a root password
5. Create a user account:
   • New User: Enter a full name (e.g., John Doe).
   • Username: This will be your login name (e.g., john).
   • User Password: Set a password for the new user.
6. Partition the Disk:
   • Choose a partitioning method (recommended: Guided – use entire disk).
   • Select the default virtual hard drive (should say VirtualBox).
   • Choose All files in one partition (recommended).
7. Confirm partition changes and select Finish partitioning → Yes to write changes and proceed to install the base system.

Note: Debian will now install core components. This step may take a few minutes.

Step 4: Choose Package Options

• You’ll be asked to configure the package manager.
• Scan additional installation media? → Choose No.
• Select a mirror: Choose your country and a Debian archive mirror (e.g., deb.debian.org).
• Leave proxy settings blank unless you use one.
• Participate in Package Usage Survey: Choose Yes or No (optional and does not affect installation).

Step 5: Select Software to Install

• Choose a desktop environment. Options may include:
  • GNOME (default)
  • XFCE (lightweight)
  • KDE, Cinnamon, MATE, etc.
• Make sure Standard System Utilities and SSH Server (optional) are selected.

Step 6: Install the GRUB Bootloader

• Select Yes to install the GRUB bootloader.
• Choose the main disk (usually /dev/sda) to install GRUB.

Step 7: Complete Installation and Reboot

• Once done, remove the ISO from the virtual drive:
  • Go to Devices > Optical Drives > Remove Disk from Virtual Drive.
• Click Continue to reboot.

You’ve successfully installed Debian in VirtualBox!

If you want to try another Linux distro which has designed to look and feel familiar to Windows or macOS, check out our guide on How to install Zorin OS in VirtualBox in Windows OS!

Pro Tips for Running Debian Smoothly

• Enable Guest Additions for better performance:
  • Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD Image
• Increase video memory for smoother GUI experience.
• Take snapshots to restore your system if anything goes wrong.

Why Use Debian in a Virtual Machine?

• Safe environment for testing software
• Ideal for learning Linux command line
• Great for developers needing a clean workspace
• No risk to your actual operating system

Conclusion

Installing Debian in VirtualBox is easier than most people think. With just a few steps, you can get a full Linux environment running right inside your existing system—perfect for experimentation, learning, and software development. If you’ve followed the steps above, you’re now ready to explore the power of Debian OS risk-free.

FAQs

Q: Can I install other Linux distributions using the same method?
Yes! The process is nearly identical for Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch, and others.

Q: Is Debian good for beginners?
Absolutely. Debian offers stability and a large community—great for both beginners and pros.

Q: Is VirtualBox free to use?
Yes, it’s completely free and open-source.