#Windows 10 boot error VirtualBox,

How to Install Windows 10 on Oracle VirtualBox VM

Oracle VirtualBox is a versatile tool for creating and managing virtual machines. If you're setting up Windows 10 as a virtual machine and encounter the error "The virtual machine failed to boot," this guide will help you resolve the issue and complete the installation process.

Common Installation Error: Missing Operating System

When installing Windows 10 on Oracle VirtualBox, you might see this error:

"The virtual machine failed to boot. That might be caused by a missing operating system or misconfigured boot order. Mounting an operating system install DVD might solve this problem. Selecting an ISO file will attempt to mount it after the dialog is closed."

This error typically occurs because the virtual machine cannot find a bootable operating system. The solution lies in properly mounting the Windows 10 ISO file.

Solution: Installing Windows 10 on Oracle VirtualBox VM

Follow these steps to create and configure a virtual machine for Windows 10:

Step 1: Create the Virtual Machine

1. Open Oracle VirtualBox and click New to create a new virtual machine.
2. Enter a name for your VM (e.g., "Windows 10 VM").
3. Select Windows 10 (64-bit) as the operating system type.
4. Allocate the recommended amount of RAM (at least 2 GB).
5. Create a virtual hard disk (minimum 20 GB recommended).
6. Important: On the first page of the virtual machine creation wizard, do not select an ISO file. Leave it unmounted for now.

Step 2: Mount the Windows 10 ISO File

After creating the virtual machine, follow these steps to mount the ISO file:

1. Open Virtual Machine Settings:

   • In the Oracle VirtualBox main interface, select your newly created VM.
   • Click Settings from the toolbar.

2. Navigate to the Storage Section:

   • Go to the Storage tab in the settings window.
   • Under the "Controller: IDE" or "Controller: SATA" section, select the empty optical drive ("Empty").

3. Mount the ISO File:

   • Click the disc icon next to "Optical Drive" and choose Choose a disk file...
   • Browse to the location of your Windows 10 ISO file and select it.
   • Click OK to save the settings.

Step 3: Start the Virtual Machine

1. Return to the Oracle VirtualBox main interface.
2. Select your virtual machine and click Start.
3. The virtual machine should now boot from the Windows 10 ISO file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10.

Tips for a Smooth Installation

• Verify ISO File: Ensure that the Windows 10 ISO file is bootable and properly downloaded from the official Microsoft website.
• Allocate Sufficient Resources: Assign at least 4 GB of RAM and 30 GB of storage for a better experience.
• Enable Virtualization: Check your system's BIOS/UEFI settings to ensure that virtualization is enabled.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 10 on Oracle VirtualBox VM is a straightforward process once you properly configure the virtual machine and mount the ISO file. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can avoid boot errors and successfully set up your Windows 10 virtual machine.

Oracle VirtualBox offers a flexible and efficient way to test, develop, and run Windows 10 alongside other operating systems. Embrace the power of virtualization today!

FAQs

1. Why is my virtual machine not booting?

• The VM may not detect a bootable operating system. Ensure you’ve mounted the correct ISO file.

2. Can I change the boot order in VirtualBox?

• Yes, go to Settings > System > Motherboard and adjust the boot order.

3. How do I update VirtualBox?

• Download the latest version from the official Oracle VirtualBox website.

4. Is Oracle VirtualBox free to use?

• Yes, Oracle VirtualBox is free for personal and educational use.

For more virtualization tips, stay tuned to our blog!