Step-by-Step Guide to Installing VirtualBox on Windows 11 and 10 (2025)

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing VirtualBox on Windows 11 and 10 (2025)

Installing and Configuring VirtualBox on Windows 11

Last Updated: July 23, 2025

Oracle VirtualBox stands as a versatile, no-cost virtualization tool (or hypervisor) compatible with various operating systems, including Windows 11, Windows 10, macOS, and Linux. It empowers users to create and manage virtual machines, facilitating the simultaneous operation of multiple OS installations. This capability eliminates the necessity for dual-boot configurations or additional hardware devices.

Whether you’re looking to experiment with pre-release versions of Windows 11 via the Windows Insider Program, delve into Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Kali Linux, or safely evaluate applications in an isolated setting, VirtualBox offers a reliable platform for all these needs.

Compatible with both Intel and AMD architectures, VirtualBox is tailored for both home and enterprise usage. It supports numerous guest operating systems, including varied versions of Windows and a wide array of Linux distributions, Solaris, OpenBSD, and more.

This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the installation and essential configuration of VirtualBox on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Step 1: Install VirtualBox on Windows 11

The following steps will guide you through the installation of VirtualBox on your Windows 11 or 10 system:

  1. Visit the Oracle download page.

  2. Under “VirtualBox Platform Packages, ”select the Windows hosts option to download the installer.

    VirtualBox download

  3. Double-click the VirtualBox-x.x.x-x-Win.exe file to initiate the installation.

  4. Hit the Next button to proceed.

  5. Accept the license terms and click Next.

  6. Review the default setup settings; adjust only if necessary.

    VirtualBox default install settings

    Quick note: It is recommended to use default settings unless specific requirements dictate changes.

  7. (Optional) Deselect any features you do not wish to install.

  8. Click Next to continue.

  9. When prompted, click Yes to confirm the installation of the virtual network adapter.

    VirtualBox network adapter warning

  10. If notified, click Yes again to install any missing dependencies.

  11. Continue by clicking Next.

  12. Finally, click the Install button to begin the installation process.

    VirtualBox install

  13. Click Finish upon installation completion.

Once installation is finished, VirtualBox will open automatically. You can also launch it later from the Start menu like any other application.

Install VirtualBox Using Winget Command

If preferred, you can utilize the Windows Package Manager (winget) for installation via Command Prompt:

  1. Open the Start Menu.

  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select Run as administrator.

  3. (Optional) Type the following command to find the application name and hit Enter:

    winget search virtualbox

    Quick note: Although optional, searching for the application ensures that you execute the correct install command later on.

  4. Input the following command to install VirtualBox, then press Enter:

    winget install Oracle. VirtualBox winget install VirtualBox

After these steps, the Windows Package Manager will handle the automatic download and installation of VirtualBox with no further action needed from you.

Step 2: Configure VirtualBox on Windows 11

While many users will find the default settings sufficient, VirtualBox offers extensive customization possibilities. Below are essential configuration steps to enhance your experience:

  1. Open VirtualBox.

  2. Select Preferences from the File menu.

    VirtualBox preferences

  3. Go to the General tab.

  4. Modify the Default Machine Folder setting to confirm the desired location for your virtual machines on Windows 11.

    Change VM default folder location

    Quick note: For optimal performance, consider using an external hard drive for storing virtual machines. Storing on the primary drive can cause system slowdowns.

  5. Next, navigate to the Update section.

  6. Enable the Check for updates option and adjust settings based on your preferences for pre-release versions.

    VirtualBox update settings

  7. (Optional) Select the Display settings.

  8. Access the Expert tab at the top of the window.

  9. Confirm the Maximum Guest Screen Size and adjust as needed, although maintaining defaults is generally advisable.

  10. Modify the Scale Factor to customize the size of text and visual elements in virtual machines.

  11. Finalize your settings by clicking OK.

Upon completing these configurations, your settings will be applied to enhance your VirtualBox experience. VirtualBox automates NAT (Network Address Translation) configurations for new hosts, eliminating the need for extensive network setup to get started. However, advanced networking features are also available if needed.

Step 3: Install the VirtualBox Extension Pack on Windows 11

The VirtualBox Extension Pack isn’t mandatory but provides enhanced capabilities such as USB 2.0 and 3.0 support, VirtualBox RDP, disk encryption, NVMe, and PXE boot for Intel network cards.

To install the extension pack, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Oracle download page.

  2. Click the “Accept and Download” button under the “VirtualBox Extension Pack” section.

    Download VirtualBox extension pack

  3. Next, open VirtualBox.

  4. Select Tools from the File menu and click on Extension Pack Manager.

    VirtualBox Extension Pack Manager

  5. Click the Install button.

  6. Choose the “.vbox-extpack” file you downloaded earlier.

  7. Click the Open button.

  8. Once selected, confirm the installation by clicking Install.

    VirtualBox install extension pack

  9. Scroll to the bottom of the agreement page.

  10. Click “I Agree” to accept the terms.

  11. Finally, click OK to complete the installation.

After the installation is complete, you can begin creating virtual machines and installing Guest Additions. If you choose later to remove the extension pack, select it from the Extensions page and click the Remove Selected Package button.

Updated: July 23, 2025: This guide has been revised to reflect the latest updates and ensure a smooth setup process.

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