How to Install Fedora OS in VirtualBox: 2025 Complete Beginners Guide

Are you curious about Fedora Linux but hesitant to install it directly on your main machine? Installing Fedora OS in VirtualBox is the perfect solution. It allows you to explore the full capabilities of Fedora—without making permanent changes to your computer.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to install Fedora OS in VirtualBox safely and efficiently, even if you’re a complete beginner.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before diving in, make sure you have the following:

• A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
• At least 8 GB of RAM (4 GB minimum)
• Around 20 GB of free disk space
• An active internet connection
• The following downloads:
  • VirtualBox
  • Fedora ISO Image

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

Step 1: Install VirtualBox on Your Computer

1. Visit the official VirtualBox website.
2. Download the version compatible with your operating system.
3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Once installed, launch VirtualBox.

Step 2: Download Fedora ISO File

Fedora comes in multiple editions. For general use:

1. Go to https://fedoraproject.org//.
2. Click on Workstation Download.
3. Choose the latest version and download the ISO file (around 2 GB+).

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox and click on “New”.
2. Name it something like Fedora Linux.
3. Folder: Choose where you want to save the virtual machine files.
4. ISO Image: Choose the ISO file of Fedora OS from where you’ve downloaded it.
5. Set the Type to Linux and Subtype to Fedora and Version to Fedora (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 RAM to the VM

• Base Memory:
  • Recommended: Allocate 4096 MB (4 GB) of RAM.
  • Minimum: 2048 MB (2 GB) if you’re low on memory.
• Processors: Set CPUs to 2 or more (depending on your hardware).
• Click on Hard Disk.

Create a Virtual Hard Disk

1. Choose Create a virtual hard disk now.
2. Select VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image).
3. Keep Unchecked Pre-allocate Full Size option to save space initially.
4. Set size to 20 GB or more.
5. Click Finish.

Step 4: Boot the VM

1. Select Fedora Linux Virtual Machine
2. Then hit Start.

Step 5: Install Fedora on the Virtual Machine

Once Fedora boots:

1. Choose Start Fedora Workstation Live.
2. After the desktop loads, click “Install to Hard Drive”.
3. Select your language and region.
4. In Installation Destination, select the default virtual disk.
5. Click Begin Installation.
6. Set a root password and create a user account.
7. Wait for the installation to finish.
8. Once complete, click Reboot.

Step 6: Final Setup and Updates

sudo dnf update

4. This ensures your Fedora VM is up to date.

If you want to try another Linux distro like Debian OS, check out our guide on How to install Debian OS in VirtualBox in Windows OS!

Tips for Better VirtualBox Performance

• Enable Virtualization (VT-x/AMD-V) in BIOS settings.
• In VirtualBox settings > Display, increase Video Memory to 128 MB.
• Use Guest Additions for better screen resolution and clipboard sharing.

Conclusion: Try Fedora Risk-Free with VirtualBox

That’s it! You’ve successfully installed Fedora OS in VirtualBox. This setup is perfect for learning Linux, testing software, or just exploring Fedora’s features—without affecting your main operating system.

If you ever mess something up, just reset the VM or take a snapshot for quick recovery.

FAQs

1. Is Fedora good for beginners?

Yes. Fedora offers a clean, modern experience with up-to-date software. It’s a great choice for learning Linux.

2. Can I install software in the Fedora VM like on a real machine?

Absolutely. The VM behaves just like a real system.

3. How do I uninstall Fedora from VirtualBox?

Just delete the virtual machine and its virtual disk from within VirtualBox.