How to Install Windows 10 in VirtualBox (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

Want to test or run Windows 10 without affecting your main system? Using VirtualBox, you can install Windows 10 as a virtual machine (VM) safely and easily. This guide walks you through every step to install Windows 10 in VirtualBox, optimized for the latest version in 2025.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• VirtualBox: Download and install the latest version from the official website.
• Windows 10 ISO: Obtain the ISO file from the Uptodown or Microsoft official site.
• System Requirements:
  • RAM: Minimum 4 GB (8 GB recommended)
  • Disk Space: At least 30 GB free
  • Processor: Dual-core CPU or higher

Step 1: Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox

We’ll start by creating a virtual computer inside VirtualBox where Windows 10 will be installed.

1. Open Oracle VM VirtualBox Manager.
2. Click the “New” button (blue star icon).
3. Fill in the details:
   • Name: Enter a name like “Windows 10”.
   • Folder: Choose where you want to save the VM (avoid your main system drive if space is low).
   • ISO Image: Click and select your Windows 10 ISO file. This will auto-fill the OS details.
   • Type: Microsoft Windows
   • Version: Windows 10 (64-bit)
   • Skip Automatic Install: Make sure the box that says “Skip Unattended Installation” is checked.
4. Click Next.

Hardware

1. Base Memory: Set at least 4096 MB (4 GB). If you can, choose 8192 MB (8 GB) for smoother performance.
2. Processors: Allocate 2 or more CPU cores if your host allows it.
3. Click Next.

Virtual Hard Disk

1. Choose “Create a Virtual Hard Disk Now”.
2. Disk Size: Set at least 50 GB. Windows 10 and apps require space.
3. Use default settings:
   • Disk Type: VDI
   • Storage: Keep unchecked “Pre-allocate Full Size”. This means the storage file starts small and only gets bigger as you put more things in your virtual computer, up to a limit you set. This saves space on your real hard drive at first.
4. Click Finish.

Congrats! You’ve just created a virtual container for your Windows 10 system.

Step 2: Adjust VM Settings for Windows 10 Installation

Now, let’s change a few settings before starting the installation to ensure everything runs smoothly.

1. Select the Windows 10 VM from the VirtualBox list.
2. Click the Settings button (gear icon).

Processor and Memory

• Go to General > Advanced:
  • Set Shared Clipboard and Drag’n’Drop to Bidirectional.
• Go to System > Processor:
  • Confirm at least 2 CPUs are assigned.
• Go to Display > Screen:
  • Set Video Memory to 128 MB or higher.
  • Enable 3D Acceleration.
• Go to Storage:
  • Under “Controller: IDE”, click the Empty CD icon.
  • On the right, click the small CD icon next to “Attributes” dropdown.
  • Click Choose a disk file…
  • Select your Windows 10 ISO file again (if not already selected).
  • You’ll now see the ISO listed next to the CD icon.
• Go to Network:
  • Ensure Adapter 1 is enabled and set to NAT for internet access.
• Go to USB:
  • Select USB 3.0 (xHCI) for better USB device support.

Click OK to save all settings.

Step 3: Start the Virtual Machine and Install Windows 10

1. Select your VM and click Start.
2. The virtual machine will boot using the selected ISO.

Windows Setup

1. Choose your language, time, and keyboard layout. Click Next.
2. Click Install Now.
3. When asked for a product key, click “I don’t have a product key”.
4. Choose the Windows 10 edition (e.g., Home or Pro) and click Next.
5. Accept the license agreement and click Next.
6. Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
7. Choose the unallocated space and click Next.

Windows will begin installing. This may take a few minutes and involve automatic restarts.

Step 4: Complete Windows Setup

Once installation is complete:

1. Choose your region and keyboard layout.
2. Click “I don’t have internet” if prompted to avoid online setup.
3. Select “Continue with limited setup”.
4. Enter a username and password.
5. Set privacy preferences and complete the setup.

You’ll now see the Windows 10 desktop!

Step 5: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (Recommended)

To enable full-screen resolution, shared folders, and better performance:

1. With the VM running, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image.
2. Open File Explorer inside the VM and go to the CD drive.
3. Run VBoxWindowsAdditions.exe.
4. Follow the installation steps and restart the VM.

Need to Install Ubuntu Instead?

Check out our full guide on Installing Ubuntu in VirtualBox.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully set up Windows 10 in VirtualBox with optimized settings for performance and usability. Whether for development, testing, or everyday use, this virtual setup gives you a clean Windows environment right on your existing system.