Installing CentOS 10 in VirtualBox enables you to learn and practice Linux server management without affecting your main system. CentOS 10 running in a VirtualBox virtual environment allows you to experience enterprise-grade Linux in a safe and secure environment, whether you are a developer, student, or system administrator.
This guide explains CentOS 10 installation on VirtualBox for Windows, Linux, or macOS. It covers VM creation, OS install, and post-install configuration.
Prerequisites
Make sure that you have the following:
- Oracle VirtualBox installed
- VirtualBox Extension Pack is installed
- Download CentOS 10 ISO File
- Minimum 4 GB RAM is recommended
- Free 20 GB of disk space
How to Install CentOS 10 on VirtualBox
VirtualBox provides a safe and practical way to learn enterprise Linux. You can build a CentOS lab quickly with the right VM configuration, a step-by-step install, and a proper installation. This is suited for learning about system administration, server management, and application deployment. VirtualBox allows you to run CentOS 10 on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
Step 1: Download CentOS 10 ISO File
Installing CentOS 10 in VirtualBox requires the official CentOS ISO image. Let’s download CentOS 10 ISO DVD from the official archive site.
The ISO file is used as an installation medium for CentOS 10 on the virtual machine.
Step 2: Open VirtualBox and Create a New Virtual Machine
Click the New button in VirtualBox to create a virtual machine.
Set the following values:
- Name: CentOS10 or any name for OS
- Type: Linux
- Version: Red Hat (64-bit)
The correct OS type will ensure proper hardware and kernel compatibility.
Step 3: Allocate Memory (RAM)
Select the amount of RAM you want to allocate to your CentOS 10 virtual machine.
Recommended:
- Minimum: 2 GB
- Recommended: 4 GB or more
A sufficient memory boosts performance and helps to prevent installation errors.
Step 4: Create a Virtual Hard Disk
Choose Create a virtual disk now, and then select:
- Disk type: VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image)
- Size: 20-40 GB
The virtual disk contains CentOS system files and applications as well as user data.
Step 5: Attach CentOS 10 ISO to Virtual Machine
Select the downloaded CentOS 10 ISO. VirtualBox can now boot the CentOS installation from the ISO.
Step 6: Start the Virtual Machine
Click on Start to start the CentOS 10 installation.
After that, choose Install CentOS Linux 10.
The CentOS installation will begin.
Step 7: Select Language and Keyboard Layout
Click Continue after selecting your language and keyboard layout. Installs correctly and with correct keyboard input.
Step 8: Configure Installation Destination
Click Installation Destination, select the virtual disk, and confirm.
Keep Automatic partitioning on. CentOS creates partitions automatically for stability.
Step 9: Set Root Password and Create User
Create a root account and set a strong password for the root. Good user management will improve the security of your system and its usability.
Step 10: Begin CentOS 10 Installation
Click on Begin Installation, and wait until the installation process is complete. CentOS configures and installs the OS environment.
Step 11: Reboot and Remove ISO
After installation:
- Reboot the VM
- Remove the ISO from the virtual optical drive
This prevents the installer from being launched again at startup.
Post-Installation (Recommended)
After installation, install VirtualBox Guest Additions for better display and performance. Let’s confirm the CentOS 10 stream display.
It is best practice to update the system.
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sudo dnf update |
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That is all from the installation guide.
Conclusion
To install CentOS 10 on VirtualBox, create a new Linux Virtual Machine, attaching the CentOS 10 ISO, allocating memory and disk space, and starting the installer. During setup, configure language, storage, and networking. Then, complete the installation and reboot your system. This method lets you run CentOS 10 as a virtual machine for learning, testing, or development, without having to modify your computer.
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