Why Do People Install Ubuntu on VirtualBox in Windows OS?

While many Windows users opt for tools like Cygwin to interact with Unix-based environments, there's a significant segment of the tech community that prefers the full-fledged experience of Ubuntu. However, the direct installation of Ubuntu on a Windows OS often poses challenges, leading many to opt for running Ubuntu in a virtual machine (VM) using tools like VirtualBox. In this article, we delve into the reasons why people choose to install Ubuntu within a VirtualBox VM on Windows OS.

Purpose and Flexibility of Running Ubuntu in a VM

Exploring the Linux World Safely: Many individuals are newcomers to the Linux world. Running Ubuntu in a virtual machine offers a sandboxed environment where users can experiment with the operating system without the risk of damaging their primary system. This safety feature is particularly valuable for those unfamiliar with partition management and boot loaders.

Snapshot and Undo Functionality: VirtualBox provides a feature called 'Snapshots,' which allows users to save the current state of the virtual machine. This functionality is akin to an 'undo' button or a restore point. Users can perform complex operations, experiment with different configurations, and revert changes should something go wrong, without any adverse effects on their primary OS.

Ease of Switching Between OSes

Seamless OS Switching: One of the significant advantages of using a VM is the ability to quickly switch between operating systems. Users can easily boot into Windows OS for different tasks, and then switch back to Ubuntu for specific software development, programming, or system administration tasks. This flexibility is particularly useful for developers and professionals who work with multiple operating systems on a daily basis.

Before WSL/WSL2: An "Easy Way" to Access Linux

The Role of WSL and WSL2: Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and its more capable version, WSL2, have revolutionized the way Windows users can interact with Linux on their systems. These tools provide a lightweight and efficient way to run Linux applications directly on Windows without the overhead of a full virtual machine. However, for those who prefer the full feature set of a Linux distribution or for users with older versions of Windows, running Ubuntu via VirtualBox remains a viable and reliable option.

Challenges of Direct Installation on Windows

Partition Management and Boot Loader Issues: Direct installation of Ubuntu on a Windows OS often involves complex partition management and managing the boot loader, both of which can be daunting for beginners. This complexity can lead to system instability or even partial loss of data. In contrast, running Ubuntu in VirtualBox allows users to avoid these challenges entirely.

Dual Monitor Support: Another practical reason for using VirtualBox is the better support for external monitors. For many users, particularly those who need to connect their Windows OS to multiple monitors for work, Windows OS often provides superior multi-monitor support compared to Linux distributions. While some Linux distributions have improved, this is still a consideration for users who prioritize seamless multi-monitor functionality.

Conclusion

The decision to install Ubuntu on VirtualBox in Windows OS is driven by various factors, including the need for a sandboxed environment, the desire for snapshot and undo functionality, the ease of switching between operating systems, and the challenges associated with direct installation. As technology evolves, tools like WSL and WSL2 continue to make it easier for Windows users to work with Linux, but for those who appreciate the full Linux experience or face specific challenges, VirtualBox remains a robust and reliable solution.