VirtualBox Installation and Configuration on Ubuntu 26.04

Overview

VirtualBox is a powerful system that allows you to run different operating systems such as Linux, Windows and BSD on virtual machines. It is a desktop virtualization application. Ideal for software testing, creating lab environments, and running experiments isolated from your main system. In Ubuntu 26.04, installing VirtualBox 7.2 via the official multiverse repository is the safest recommended method.

Prerequisites

• A user account with sudo privileges.
• If Secure Boot is enabled on the system, be prepared for MOK (Machine Owner Key) registration.

Installation. Steps

1. Update Package List:

   sudo apt update

2. Enable Multiverse Repository:

   sudo add-apt-repository multiverse

3. Update System Again and Start Installation:

   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install virtualbox

4. Verify Installation:

   VBoxManage --version

Extension Pack Installation

Extension Pack is required for advanced features such as USB 2.0/3.0 support, disk encryption and remote desktop access:

sudo apt install virtualbox-ext-pack

Warning: During installation, you will be asked to accept the license agreement. Complete the process by confirming with your keyboard on the terminal screen.

Troubleshooting

Kernel Modules Are Not Loading

If virtual machines cannot be started, update the kernel headers and reconfigure the modules:

sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r)
sudo dpkg-reconfigure virtualbox-dkms

USB Devices Not Shown

Add your user to the vboxusers group and define the necessary permissions:

sudo usermod -aG vboxusers $USER

You must log out and log in again for the changes to take effect. is required.

FAQ

Why should I use the Ubuntu repository instead of the Oracle repository?
Compatibility with Ubuntu 26.04 and kernel packaging processes are more stable in installations made through the official repository.

Where are the virtual machines stored?
By default, they are stored in the ~/VirtualBox VMs/ directory.