Enjoying a Streamlined Linux Experience on VHD(vhdlinux)
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With the release of Windows 10, more users now have access to powerful virtualization tools. The Hyper-V feature allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single computer. This means that users can now enjoy a streamlined Linux experience on their Windows machines in the form of a virtual hard disk (VHD).
Linux environments offer a number of advantages over Windows in terms of performance, security, and customization. With a VHD, users can enjoy the convenience of running multiple Linux distributions at once without requiring multiple physical machines. This way, Linux users can take advantage of the latest features and updates without sacrificing their existing environment.
To get started with the Linux experience on Windows, users can download a pre-created VHD or even choose to create their own. Creating VHDs is a straightforward process. Users simply need to download a VHD creation tool from any of the major Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu, Red Hat, CentOS, or openSUSE.
Once the VHD is created, users can follow the instructions for setting up the virtual machine. These instructions typically include instructions for installing a virtualization tool such as VirtualBox or KVM. Once the virtualization tool has been installed and configured, the Linux operating system can be installed on the VHD. During the installation process, users should select the “installation type” as “custom” in order to ensure the best compatibility with other software.
Once the Linux operating system is installed, users can continue to customize the environment to suit their needs. There are a number of options available in terms of which software packages to install and how to configure various components. Additionally, users can easily access the root filesystem in order to make more advanced customizations.
By taking advantage of VHDs and virtualization tools, Linux users can now enjoy a streamlined Linux experience on their Windows machines. The process of downloading, creating, and configuring a VHD is relatively straightforward and can be done quickly and easily. Furthermore, the benefits of a streamlined Linux environment are clear, from improved system performance and security to customized settings and software packages.
For example, below is a script which can help you quickly set up a VHD for Ubuntu Linux:
# Download and install VirtualBox
sudo apt-get install virtualbox
# Download the Ubuntu ISO file
wget http://cdimage.ubuntu.com/ubuntu-server/releases/19.04/release/ubuntu-19.04-server-amd64.iso
# Create a VHD in VirtualBox
VBoxManage createhd –filename ubuntu.vdi –size 8G
# Create a virtual machine in VirtualBox
VBoxManage createvm –name “Ubuntu VM” –ostype Ubuntu_64 –register
# Attach the VHD to the virtual machine
VBoxManage storagectl “Ubuntu VM” –name “SATA Controller” –add sata
VBoxManage storageattach “Ubuntu VM” –storagectl “SATA Controller” –port 0 –device 0 –type hdd –medium ubuntu.vdi
# Attach the Ubuntu ISO file for installation
VBoxManage storageattach “Ubuntu VM” –storagectl “SATA Controller” –port 1 –device 0 –type dvddrive –medium ./ubuntu-19.04-server-amd64.iso
# Start the virtual machine
VBoxManage startvm “Ubuntu VM”
Finally, you can follow the on-screen instructions to finalize the installation and start enjoying a streamlined Linux experience on your Windows machine.