How to download, install, and run Ubuntu in VMware Workstation.

Florenceify
4 min readDec 15, 2023

Introduction:

VMware Workstation offers a robust platform for running multiple operating systems on a single machine. This guide outlines a step-by-step process for downloading, installing, and running Ubuntu within VMware Workstation, providing users with the ability to explore the Ubuntu operating system without the need for a dedicated physical machine.

From obtaining the necessary software to configuring the virtual machine settings, this comprehensive walkthrough ensures a seamless installation process. Whether you’re a developer testing applications, a system administrator exploring different environments, or simply curious about Ubuntu, this guide will empower you to harness the capabilities of VMware Workstation and effortlessly integrate Ubuntu into your virtualization ecosystem. Let’s dive into the details of setting up your virtual Ubuntu environment with VMware Workstation.. Please note that the steps may vary slightly depending on the version of VMware Workstation you are using.

Step 1: Download VMware Workstation
Visit the official VMware website and download the latest version of VMware Workstation. You may need to create a VMware account and log in to access the download.

Step 2: Install VMware Workstation
Run the installer you downloaded in Step 1. Follow the on-screen instructions to install VMware Workstation on your computer. You may need to restart your system after the installation is complete.

Step 3: Download Ubuntu ISO
Visit the official Ubuntu website https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop and download the latest version of the Ubuntu Desktop ISO. Choose the appropriate architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) based on your system.

Step 4: Create a New Virtual Machine in VMware Workstation

  1. Open VMware Workstation.
    2. Click on “File” in the menu and select “New Virtual Machine.”
    3. The New Virtual Machine Wizard will open. Choose “Typical” and click “Next.”

Step 5: Specify the Ubuntu ISO

  1. Select “Installer disc image file (iso)” and click “Browse.”
    2. Navigate to the location where you saved the Ubuntu ISO file and select it.
    3. Click “Next” to proceed.

Step 6: Name and Specify Storage

  1. Enter a name for your virtual machine.
    2. Choose a location to store your virtual machine files.
    3. Specify the disk capacity (at least 25 GB is recommended).
    4. Select “Store virtual disk as a single file.”
    5. Click “Next” to continue.

Step 7: Customize Hardware (Optional)

You can customize the hardware settings if needed. Adjust the number of processors, memory, and other settings based on your system’s capabilities.

Step 8: Finish and Install

  1. Review your settings and click “Finish.”
    2. Before starting the virtual machine, you may want to go to the “Options” tab and configure additional settings if necessary.
    3. Click “Finish” to create the virtual machine.

Step 9: Start the Virtual Machine

  1. The virtual machine will boot from the Ubuntu ISO.
    2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu.

Step 10: Complete Ubuntu Installation

Follow the Ubuntu installation prompts, including language, keyboard layout, and disk partitioning. Once the installation is complete, restart the virtual machine.

Step 11: Install VMware Tools (Optional but recommended)

After Ubuntu is installed, it’s recommended to install VMware Tools for better integration and performance. In the VMware Workstation menu, go to “VM” -> “Install VMware Tools.” Follow the on-screen instructions within the Ubuntu virtual machine to complete the installation.

That’s it! You should now have Ubuntu installed and running in VMware Workstation on your system.

Conclusion:

This step-by-step guide has equipped you with the knowledge to seamlessly integrate Ubuntu into your computer using VMware Workstation. Virtualization not only simplifies the process of exploring different operating systems but also offers a practical solution for testing software or learning without the need for additional hardware.

By following these straightforward instructions, you’ve created a virtual environment where Ubuntu operates within your existing system. Embrace the flexibility of VMware Workstation and Ubuntu, and enjoy the benefits of a virtualized computing experience.

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