Setting up an Oracle Linux 9 environment within a virtualized setting is a straightforward process that allows for testing and development without impacting your main system. This guide outlines the essential steps to get Oracle Linux 9 running smoothly using VirtualBox, a popular and free virtualization software.
First, you will need the necessary components. This includes the Oracle Linux 9 ISO image, which is the installation file for the operating system. You also need to have VirtualBox downloaded and installed on your host computer. Once you have these, open VirtualBox to begin.
The process starts by creating a new virtual machine. In the VirtualBox manager, click the “New” button. You will be prompted to give your virtual machine a name, select the type (Linux), and choose the version (Oracle 64-bit). Next, you’ll allocate memory (RAM) for the virtual machine. The recommended amount is typically sufficient, but you can adjust it based on your host machine’s resources and the intended use of the Oracle Linux instance.
Following the memory allocation, you’ll configure the hard disk. Choose to create a new virtual hard disk now. Select the VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) type, which is the default. For storage on physical hard disk, dynamically allocated is usually preferred as it only uses space as needed, up to the limit you set. You will then define the size of the virtual hard disk; ensure it’s large enough for the OS installation and any applications you plan to install.
With the virtual machine created, select it from the list and click “Settings”. Go to the “Storage” section. Under the “Controller: IDE”, click the empty CD icon and choose “Choose a disk file”. Navigate to and select the downloaded Oracle Linux 9 ISO image. This virtually inserts the installation media into your new machine.
Now, it’s time to power on the virtual machine. Click the “Start” button. The virtual machine will boot from the mounted ISO image, launching the Oracle Linux 9 installer. Follow the on-screen prompts to configure the installation. You will select your language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
Key steps in the installer include software selection (choosing what kind of environment you want, e.g., server, workstation), disk partitioning (deciding how the virtual hard disk is divided – automatic partitioning is simplest for beginners), and network configuration. You will also be required to set a root password and create a standard user account.
Once you have made these configurations, review the summary and click “Begin Installation”. The installer will copy the necessary files and set up the system. This process can take some time depending on your computer’s speed and the selected software packages.
After the installation completes, you will be prompted to reboot the virtual machine. Make sure to virtually eject the ISO image from the storage settings before restarting to ensure the VM boots from the installed system rather than the installer media again.
Upon reboot, you will be greeted by the Oracle Linux 9 login screen. Enter the credentials for the user account you created. For enhanced integration with your host system, such as better screen resolution, shared clipboard, and drag-and-drop functionality, consider installing the Guest Additions within the Oracle Linux 9 guest OS after installation. This is typically done by selecting “Devices” -> “Insert Guest Additions CD image…” from the VirtualBox menu bar and then running the installation script inside the virtual machine.
Source: https://kifarunix.com/install-oracle-linux-9-on-virtualbox/
