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How to Install VirtualBox on macOS: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Prerequisites

Before installing VirtualBox, ensure your Mac meets these requirements:

  • macOS version: VirtualBox supports macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) and later.
  • Administrator access: You’ll need admin privileges to install the software.
  • Enough disk space: At least 500MB for VirtualBox, plus additional space for virtual machines.

Step 1: Download VirtualBox

  1. Go to the official VirtualBox download page.
  2. Under "VirtualBox binaries", click the link for "OS X hosts" to download the installer.

Step 2: Install VirtualBox

  1. Open the downloaded .dmg file (e.g., VirtualBox-7.0.x-xxxxxx-OSX.dmg).
  2. Double-click the VirtualBox.pkg installer.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions:
    • Click Continue on the introduction screen.
    • Review the disk space requirements and click Continue.
    • Click Install (you may need to enter your admin password).
  4. Wait for the installation to complete.

Step 3: Launch VirtualBox

  1. After installation, open Finder and go to Applications.
  2. Double-click VirtualBox to launch it.
  3. If macOS warns about the app being from an unidentified developer:
    • Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security.
    • Click Open Anyway under the security warning.

Step 4: Create Your First Virtual Machine

Now that VirtualBox is installed, you can set up a virtual machine (VM):

  1. Click New in VirtualBox.
  2. Enter a name for your VM (e.g., "Ubuntu Linux").
  3. Select the OS type and version (e.g., Linux → Ubuntu 64-bit).
  4. Allocate RAM (e.g., 4GB for a lightweight OS).
  5. Create a virtual hard disk (VDI format recommended for beginners).
  6. Click Create, then Start to boot the VM.
  7. Insert an ISO file when prompted to install the guest OS.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Installation fails? Ensure your macOS version is supported.
  • VM won’t start? Check if virtualization is enabled in your Mac’s BIOS (most Macs enable it by default).
  • Performance issues? Install VirtualBox Guest Additions for better graphics and mouse integration.

Conclusion

VirtualBox is an excellent tool for running multiple operating systems on your Mac without dual-booting. With this guide, you should now have VirtualBox up and running.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!

Happy virtualizing!

Would you like me to add any additional details, such as how to install Guest Additions or configure network settings? Let me know!