Since there are many Linux distributions (including the best known : Ubuntu, Debian, Cent OS and Red Hat), VirtualBox will first compile the guest additions to be compatible with your Linux distribution. Specify 'clean install' as the name (for example). To learn more about this feature, refer to our tutorial ' VirtualBox - Create snapshots of a virtual machine'. Thus, in case of problem, you can restore your virtual machine to its previous state instead of having to completely reinstall Linux in your VM. It's therefore recommended to install the latest version of these with the virtual CD that came with your version of VirtualBox.įirst, as stated in the VirtualBox documentation, it's recommended that you create a snapshot of your Linux virtual machine before you install the guest additions. Nevertheless, as indicated in the VirtualBox documentation, they are often incomplete or out of date. To install them on Windows, just insert the virtual CD of the guest additions and click Next several times.īut, when you want to install them under Linux, this is slightly complicated.īefore you begin, be aware that some Linux distributions already include some or all of the guest additions necessary for Linux to work properly under VirtualBox.

Indeed, these guest additions are drivers that allow your virtual machine to function properly, as well as provide some additional features (such as VirtualBox file sharing, for example).

As you probably know, to get the most out of VirtualBox and its features, you must first install VirtualBox Guest Additions.

Ubuntu install virtualbox additions