Spinning Up a Windows 10 Client in VirtualBox

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Windows Media Creation Tool

A prerequisite to creating a Windows 10 VM is going to Microsoft’s website and downloading their media creation tool. This tool allows you to create a Windows 10 ISO image or bootable USB drive.

Download Media Creation Tool

Creating a New VirtualBox VM

To create a new virtual machine in VirtualBox, you’ll need to provide the following information:

• A descriptive name (e.g., “Windows 10”)
• Destination folder
• Windows 10 ISO image
• Base memory in MB
• Number of processors
• Virtual Hard Disk

When creating a new virtual hard disk, you have the option to pre-allocate the full size of the disk. Pre-allocating means the entire disk space is formatted before the OS installation, which can improve performance but takes longer to set up. Alternatively, the virtual hard disk can expand as needed, which is quicker initially but may have performance drawbacks.

Using a Local Account

To use a local account instead of a Microsoft account during Windows 10 setup, disable the network adapter in the VM’s network settings. This allows you to select the Limited Setup option during the installation wizard, which is only available without an internet connection.

Display Settings

For optimal display performance:

• Set Video Memory to the highest value
• Enable 3D Acceleration

Guest Additions

VirtualBox Guest Additions enhance the user experience of your VM. To install Guest Additions:

1. In the uppermost Toolbar select Devices
2. Click on Insert Guest Additions CD Image…
3. Open File Explorer
4. Click on This PC
5. Click on CD Drive Virtual Box Guest Additions
6. Accept the UAC prompt
7. Follow the Installer Wizard Instructions

After installation, restart the VM. If the VM doesn’t scale to your display, go to View in the toolbar and select Auto-resize Guest Display.

Rename your PC

To rename your Windows 10 VM:

1. Click on the Windows Search Bar
2. Type About
3. Under Device specifications, click the button Rename this PC
4. Enter a descriptive name
5. Click Next
6. Restart your PC

Check for Updates

After installing Windows 10, you’ll need to update it:

1. Go to the Windows Search Bar
2. Search for Updates
3. Click Check for Updates
4. Restart your computer when prompted

Repeat these steps until you see the message You’re up to date after clicking the Check for Updates button.

Conclusion

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