What is VirtualBox?

Last updated: February 8, 2026Reviewed date: February 8, 2026Reading time: 8 min read
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VirtualBox is a free and open-source software program for virtualizing the x86 computing architecture. Oracle Corporation developed it. It works as a hypervisor and develops a Virtual Machine where the user can run another operating system. The "host" OS is the operating system where VirtualBox runs. The "guest" OS is the...

For severe symptoms, danger signs, pregnancy, child illness, or sudden worsening, seek urgent medical care.

বাংলা রোগী নোট এখনো যোগ করা হয়নি। পোস্ট এডিটরে “RX Bangla Patient Mode” বক্স থেকে সহজ বাংলা সারাংশ যোগ করুন।

এই তথ্য শিক্ষা ও সচেতনতার জন্য। এটি ডাক্তারি পরীক্ষা, রোগ নির্ণয় বা প্রেসক্রিপশনের বিকল্প নয়।

Article Summary

VirtualBox is a free and open-source software program for virtualizing the x86 computing architecture. Oracle Corporation developed it. It works as a hypervisor and develops a Virtual Machine where the user can run another operating system. The "host" OS is the operating system where VirtualBox runs. The "guest" OS is the operating system running on the Virtual Machine. As the host OS, VirtualBox supports Windows, Linux, Solaris, Open Solaris, and MacOS. When setting...

Key Takeaways

  • This article explains History of VirtualBox in simple medical language.
  • This article explains How the VirtualBox Works? in simple medical language.
  • This article explains Installation of VirtualBox in Windows in simple medical language.
  • This article explains FAQ in simple medical language.
Educational health guideWritten for patient understanding and clinical awareness.
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Emergency safety firstUrgent warning signs are highlighted below.

Seek urgent medical care if you notice

These warning signs are general safety guidance. Local emergency numbers and clinical judgment should always come first.

  • Severe symptoms, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or rapidly worsening illness.
  • New weakness, severe pain, high fever, or symptoms after a serious injury.
  • Any symptom that feels urgent, unusual, or unsafe for the patient.
1

Emergency now

Use emergency care for severe, sudden, rapidly worsening, or life-threatening symptoms.

2

See a doctor

Book a professional medical evaluation if symptoms persist, worsen, recur often, affect daily activities, or occur in a high-risk patient.

3

Learn safely

Use this article to understand possible causes, tests, treatment options, prevention, and questions to ask your clinician.

VirtualBox is a free and open-source software program for virtualizing the x86 computing architecture. Oracle Corporation developed it. It works as a hypervisor and develops a Virtual Machine where the user can run another operating system. The “host” OS is the operating system where VirtualBox runs. The “guest” OS is the operating system running on the Virtual Machine. As the host OS, VirtualBox supports Windows, Linux, Solaris, Open Solaris, and MacOS.

When setting up a virtual machine, the user can determine how many processor cores and how much RAM and disc space would be devoted to the VM. When the VM is running, it may be “paused”.

History of VirtualBox

Innotek GmbH originally developed it. VirtualBox was released as an open-source software package on January 17, 2007. Sun Microsystems later purchased the company. Oracle Corporation bought Sun on January 27, 2010, and took over VirtualBox production

Features of VirtualBox

There are various features of VirtualBox. Some of the essential features are as follows:

Portability

VirtualBox is a Type 2 hypervisor cross-platform OS, which means a Virtual Machine built on a single host would be run on other hosts. Guest Virtual Machine could be imported and exported according to its requirement using the Open Virtualization Format (OVF).

Guest Addition

These are the collections of tools installed on the Guest OS to optimize its performance and offer extra host system integration and communication.

VM Groups

VirtualBox offers group functionality. This functionality allows the user to individually and collectively organize virtual machines. Generally, it is possible to apply operations such as start, pause, close, reset, shutdown, save state, power off, and so on to VM classes such as individual VMs.

Hardware Support

VirtualBox supports the Guest SMP, multiscreen resolution, built-in iSCSI support, USB devices, full ACPI support, and PXE network boot.

Snapshot

VirtualBox provides the guest with VM state details with the save snapshot function. In time, we can go back and get the virtual machine back.

How the VirtualBox Works?

Oracle VirtualBox is scalable and bendy. In theory, software program virtualization isn’t overly complex. We can run many operating systems on top of VirtualBox. Each operating system can be independently started, paused, and stopped.

The hypervisor is applied as a Ring zero kernel service. The kernel includes a device driver tool known as vboxsrv. This device driver manages the tasks or activities, including loading hypervisor modules for functionality, allocating physical memory to the digital visitor machine, and saving and restoring the visitor technique’s context. Whenever any interruption occurs, we can use another OS to start execution and identify while the VT-x or AMD-V activities want to be handled.

The user itself manages its OS scheduling throughout its execution. The user operates on the host system as a single process and scheduled via a host. Apart from this, there are extra device drivers present while the user permits the OS to access resources like disks, community controllers, and different devices. Besides kernel modules, other processes are running on the host that helps the running guest. The VBoxSVC process begins automatically in the background when a guest VM is booted from the VirtualBox GUI.

Installation of VirtualBox in Windows

If we want to install the VirtualBox in windows, we can use the following steps:

Step 1: First, we need to go to the VirtualBox Website through the https://www.virtualbox.org/ in the system’s internet browser. It is the link where we will download the VirtualBox setup file.

Step 2: Click on the Download VirtualBox button, which appears on a blue button on the page.

Step 3: Now, Click on the Windows hosts link. We will see it below the “VirtualBox 6.1.16 platform packages” option.

Step 4: Now, open the VirtualBox EXE file from where we have downloaded this file in the system. After that, the VirtualBox installation window will open.

Step 5: Click on the Next button in the Welcome window.

Step 6: Choose the installation folder and click on the Next button.

Step 7: Now, we will choose the features that we want to install and then click on the Next button.

Step 8: Click on the Yes button to install the Oracle VirtualBox interfaces.

Step 9: Click on the Install button when it is prompted. After that, it will start installing the VirtualBox in our system.

Step 10: After completing all these processes, click on the Finish button. When we do this, the installation tab will be closed, and VirtualBox will be opened. Now, we can create a virtual machine to run any OS on the system.

FAQ

What is VirtualBox used for?

  • Oracle VM VirtualBox is cross-platform virtualization software. It allows users to extend their existing computer to run multiple operating systems including Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Oracle Solaris, at the same time.

What is VirtualBox and how does it work?

  • VirtualBox is designed to run virtual machines on your physical machine without reinstalling your OS that is running on a physical machine. One more VirtualBox advantage is that this product can be installed for free. A virtual machine (VM) works much like a physical one.

What is VirtualBox and do I need it?

  • A VirtualBox or VB is a software virtualization package that installs on an operating system as an application. VirtualBox allows additional operating systems to be installed on it, as a Guest OS, and run in a virtual environment.

What is VirtualBox in computers?

  • Client virtualization software from Oracle for desktop computers. Oracle VM VirtualBox runs in Windows, Mac, Linux and Solaris computers and is used to host these same operating systems and others as guests. VirtualBox is free for personal use.

Is VirtualBox free?

  • While VirtualBox itself is free to use and is distributed under an open-source license the VirtualBox Extension Pack is licensed under the VirtualBox Personal Use and Evaluation License (PUEL). Personal use is free but commercial users need to purchase a license.

What are the benefits of using a virtual machine?

VMs have several advantages:
  • Lower hardware costs. Many organizations don’t fully utilize their hardware resources.
  • Quicker Desktop Provisioning and Deployment. Deploying a new physical server often takes numerous time-consuming steps.
  • Smaller Footprint.
  • Enhanced Data Security.
  • Portability.
  • Improved IT Efficiency.

How do I run Windows 10 on VirtualBox?

VirtualBox Installation
  1. Download the Windows 10 ISO. First off, head over to the Windows 10 download page.
  2. Create a new virtual machine.
  3. Allocate RAM.
  4. Create a virtual drive.
  5. Locate the Windows 10 ISO.
  6. Configure video settings.
  7. Launch the installer.
  8. Install VirtualBox guest additions.

What are some primary reasons why Oracle VirtualBox is used?

Advantages
  • Oracle VirtualBox is used to reduce the size of a server which means the number of servers.
  • It provides the interface to system ports.
  • It provides the functionality to change storage dynamically.
  • It is easy to use.
  • It provides a nice environment for teaching.
  • We easily update.

Can I delete VirtualBox?

  • Go to the “Start” (shell), “Contol Panel”, and “Programs and Features”. A list of installed applications will be displayed in alphabetical order. Left-click “Oracle VM VirtualBox” so it is selected, then “right-click” it and choose “Uninstall” from the menu.

How many GB is VirtualBox?

  • While VirtualBox itself is very lean (a typical installation will only need about 30 MB of hard disk space), the virtual machines will require fairly huge files on disk to represent their own hard disk storage. So, to install Windows 8, for example, you will need a file that will easily grow to several 10 GB in size.

Where is VirtualBox on my computer?

how to know the virtual box is installed on windows 10
  1. Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\Programs and Features.
  2. Look for the application with the name Oracle VM Virtual Box.
  3. If you found it, it means it’s already installed on your PC. If not, you can download it on the link below:

Does VirtualBox have viruses?

  • VirtualBox is 100% safe, this program lets you download os (operating system) and run it as a virtual machine, that doesn’t mean that the virtual os is virus free (well depends, if you download windows for example, it will be like if you had a normal windows computer, there are viruses).

Can I use VirtualBox in my company?

  • Yes. The GPLv2 allows you to distribute the VirtualBox Guest Additions, in modified or unmodified form, as long as you adhere to the terms and conditions of the GPLv2.

Is it safe to download VirtualBox?

  • VirtualBox is 100% safe, this program lets you download os (operating system) and run it as a virtual machine, that doesn’t mean that the virtual os is virus free (well depends, if you download windows for example, it will be like if you had a normal windows computer, there are viruses).

How do I install a VM box?

Steps to Install VirtualBox
  1. 3.1. Click Next. To Install VirtualBox – Setup Wizard.
  2. 3.2. Click Next. To Install VirtualBox – Custom Setup.
  3. 3.3. Uncheck “Create a shortcut in the Quick Launch Bar” and click “Next”
  4. 3.4. Click “Yes”
  5. 3.5. Click “Install”
  6. 3.6. Click “Install”
  7. 3.7. Click “Install”
  8. 3.8. Click “Install”

How many OS can VirtualBox install?

  • VirtualBox runs on four host operating systems: Windows (through Windows 7), Mac OS X, Linux and OpenSolaris. It can handle a lot more guest operating systems. VirtualBox itself installs as a standard application in its host operating system.

Is virtual machine safe?

  • Virtual machines are an isolated environment from the physical operating system, so you can run potentially dangerous stuff, such as malware, without fear of compromising your main OS. They’re a safe environment, but there are exploits against virtualization software, allowing malware to spread to the physical system.

When would you use a virtual machine?

  • Virtual machines are best for running multiple applications together, monolithic applications, isolation between apps, and for legacy apps running on older operating systems. Containers and virtual machines may also be used together.

What is better VMware or VirtualBox?

  • If you already work in a VMware environment, Workstation/Fusion is clearly the better option, as it has better compatibility with VMware servers and data management tools. Overall, it’s probably a superior option for business use. Virtual machines created by VMware are faster than those created by VirtualBox.

What is Windows VM?

  • A virtual machine is a computer file, typically called an image, that behaves like an actual computer. It can run in a window as a separate computing environment, often to run a different operating system—or even to function as the user’s entire computer experience—as is common on many people’s work computers.

Can Windows 10 run a virtual machine?

  • Windows 10 includes all the software you need to set up a virtual machine (VM). Using a feature called Hyper-V, a hardware-based hypervisor for virtualization, you can install Windows 10 and other operating systems in VMs running in Windows 10.
Doctor visit helper

Prepare before seeing a doctor

A simple rural-patient checklist to help you explain symptoms clearly, ask better questions, and avoid unsafe self-treatment.

Safety note: This is not a prescription or diagnosis. For severe symptoms, pregnancy danger signs, children with serious illness, chest pain, breathing difficulty, stroke-like weakness, or major injury, seek urgent care.

Which doctor may help?

Start with a registered doctor or the nearest qualified health center.

What to tell the doctor

  • Write when the problem started and how it changed.
  • Bring old prescriptions, investigation reports, and current medicines.
  • Write allergies, pregnancy status, diabetes, kidney/liver disease, and major past illnesses.
  • Bring one family member if the patient is weak, elderly, confused, or a child.

Questions to ask

  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which danger signs mean I should go to hospital quickly?
  • Which tests are necessary now, and which can wait?
  • How should I take medicines safely and what side effects should I watch for?
  • When should I come for follow-up?

Tests to discuss

  • Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation
  • Basic physical examination by a clinician
  • CBC, urine test, blood sugar, or imaging only when clinically needed

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not use antibiotics, steroid tablets/injections, or strong painkillers without proper medical advice.
  • Do not hide pregnancy, kidney disease, ulcer, allergy, or blood thinner use.
  • Do not delay emergency care when danger signs are present.

Medicine safety and first-aid guide

This section is for patient education only. It does not replace a doctor, pharmacist, or emergency care.

Safe first steps

  • Avoid heavy lifting, sudden bending, and prolonged bed rest.
  • Use comfortable posture and gentle movement as tolerated.
  • Discuss physiotherapy, X-ray, or MRI only when clinically needed.

OTC medicine safety

  • For mild back pain, pain-relief medicine may be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.
  • Avoid repeated painkiller use if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcer, uncontrolled blood pressure, or are taking blood thinners.

Avoid these mistakes

  • Do not start antibiotics without a proper medical decision.
  • Do not use steroid tablets or injections casually for quick relief.
  • Do not delay emergency care because of home remedies.

Get urgent help if

  • Back pain with leg weakness, numbness around private area, loss of urine/stool control, fever, cancer history, or major injury needs urgent care.
Medicine names, dose, and timing must be decided by a qualified clinician or pharmacist after checking age, pregnancy, allergy, other diseases, and current medicines.

For rural patients and family caregivers

Patient health record and symptom diary

Write your symptoms, medicines already taken, test results, and questions before visiting a doctor. This note stays on your device unless you print or copy it.

Doctor to discuss: Doctor / qualified healthcare provider
Tests to discuss with doctor
  • Basic vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen level if needed
  • Relevant blood, urine, imaging, or specialist tests only after clinical assessment
Questions to ask
  • What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
  • Which warning signs mean I should go to emergency care?
  • Which tests are really needed now?
  • Which medicines are safe for my age, pregnancy status, allergy, kidney/liver/stomach condition, and current medicines?

Emergency warning signs such as chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion, severe dehydration, major injury, or loss of bladder/bowel control need urgent medical care. Do not wait for online information.

Safe pathway to proper treatment

Care roadmap for: What is VirtualBox?

Use this simple roadmap to understand the next safe steps. It is educational and does not replace examination by a doctor.

Go to emergency care if you notice:
  • Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
  • Breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, major injury, or severe dehydration
Doctor / service to discuss: Qualified healthcare provider; specialist depends on symptoms and examination.
  1. Step 1

    Check danger signs first

    If danger signs are present, seek emergency care and do not wait for online information.

  2. Step 2

    Record the symptom story

    Write when symptoms started, severity, medicines already taken, allergies, pregnancy status, and test results.

  3. Step 3

    Visit a qualified clinician

    A doctor, nurse, or qualified healthcare provider can examine you and decide which tests or treatment are needed.

  4. Step 4

    Do only useful tests

    Do tests after clinical assessment. Avoid unnecessary tests, random antibiotics, or repeated medicines without diagnosis.

  5. Step 5

    Follow up and return early if worse

    If symptoms worsen, new warning signs appear, or treatment is not helping, return for review quickly.

Rural patient practical tips
  • Take a written symptom diary and all previous prescriptions/test reports.
  • Do not hide medicines already taken, even herbal or over-the-counter medicines.
  • Ask which warning signs mean urgent referral to hospital.

This roadmap is for education. A real diagnosis and treatment plan requires history, examination, and clinical judgment.

RX Patient Help

Ask a health question safely

Write your symptom story. A health professional or site editor can review it before any answer is prepared. This box is not for emergency care.

Emergency first: Severe chest pain, breathing trouble, unconsciousness, stroke signs, severe injury, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent local medical care now.

Frequently Asked Questions

History of VirtualBoxInnotek GmbH originally developed it. VirtualBox was released as an open-source software package on January 17, 2007. Sun Microsystems later purchased the company. Oracle Corporation bought Sun on January 27, 2010, and took over VirtualBox productionFeatures of VirtualBoxThere are various features of VirtualBox. Some of the essential features are as follows:PortabilityVirtualBox is a Type 2 hypervisor cross-platform OS, which means a Virtual Machine built on a single host would be run on other hosts. Guest Virtual Machine could be imported and exported according to its requirement using the Open Virtualization Format (OVF).Guest AdditionThese are the collections of tools installed on the Guest OS to optimize its performance and offer extra host system integration and communication.VM GroupsVirtualBox offers group functionality. This functionality allows the user to individually and collectively organize virtual machines. Generally, it is possible to apply operations such as start, pause, close, reset, shutdown, save state, power off, and so on to VM classes such as individual VMs.Hardware SupportVirtualBox supports the Guest SMP, multiscreen resolution, built-in iSCSI support, USB devices, full ACPI support, and PXE network boot.SnapshotVirtualBox provides the guest with VM state details with the save snapshot function. In time, we can go back and get the virtual machine back.How the VirtualBox Works?

Oracle VirtualBox is scalable and bendy. In theory, software program virtualization isn't overly complex. We can run many operating systems on top of VirtualBox. Each operating system can be independently started, paused, and stopped. The hypervisor is applied as a Ring zero kernel service. The kernel includes a device driver tool known as vboxsrv. This device driver manages the tasks or activities, including loading hypervisor modules for functionality, allocating physical memory to the digital visitor machine, and saving and restoring…

References

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