Setting up a Linux virtual machine (VM) is one of the best ways to create a safe, flexible environment for development and testing. A VM allows you to run Linux on your existing computer without affecting your main operating system, making it ideal for experimenting with software, testing applications, or learning new tools.
- Choose Your Virtualization Software
First, select a virtualization platform. Popular options include Oracle VM VirtualBox, VMware Workstation, and Microsoft Hyper-V. linux virtual machine These tools allow you to create and manage virtual machines easily. Install your preferred software on your computer before proceeding.
- Download a Linux Distribution
Next, choose a Linux distribution (distro) that suits your development needs. Beginner-friendly options like Ubuntu are widely used, while advanced users may prefer Debian or Fedora. Download the ISO file from the official website of your chosen distro.
- Create the Virtual Machine
Open your virtualization software and click “New” to create a VM. Assign a name and select “Linux” as the operating system type. Allocate system resources such as RAM (at least 4GB recommended for development) and CPU cores. Then, create a virtual hard disk—20GB or more is ideal for development and testing tasks.
- Install Linux
Attach the downloaded ISO file to the VM and start it. The Linux installer will launch automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up language, time zone, user account, and disk configuration. Once installation completes, reboot the VM and log in.
- Configure the Environment
After installation, update the system using the package manager Install essential development tools such as Git, build tools, and your preferred code editor. You may also configure shared folders to easily transfer files between your host system and the VM.
- Snapshot and Test
Before major changes, create a snapshot of your VM. Neon Cloud Snapshots allow you to restore the system to a previous state if something breaks during testing.
By following these steps, you’ll have a fully functional Linux virtual machine ready for secure, isolated development and testing.