How to install Ubuntu 11.10 in Windows7 using VirtualBox

Ubuntu is the most appreciated Linux distribution by Linux and Windows users alike. Keeping the Live CD apart, installing Ubuntu alongside Windows7 as dual boot is a bit tedious for beginners. So here is a cool tip to virtually install Ubuntu 11.10 in Windows7 and experience every aspect of this new release with out actually creating a separate partition for Ubuntu installation.
To virtually install Ubuntu 11.10 in Windows7, we need Oracle VM VirtualBox Manager. You can download it from here. Also we need an ISO of the latest Ubuntu distribution. After installing, launch the VM VirtualBox Manager and create a new virtual machine by clicking the ‘New’ button on the top left menu.


In the VM name & OS type box, type Ubuntu and click next. Accept all onscreen alerts without changing any settings and proceed to the last stage in virtual machine creation. Once done, you get the following screen:

Now go to Settings>Storage and add CD/DVD device as shown below to mount the ISO of Ubuntu 11.10 from your hard disk.

Now click the ‘Start’ button to the right of ‘Settings’ button. Ubuntu 11.10 will now be virtually mounted on the screen and and will prompt you to either try or install.

If you click ‘Try’, it will be similar to running on a live CD. If you choose to install, the procedures are similar to what you generally do while installing Ubuntu in a new partition. Just follow the onscreen instructions without changing any settings and Ubuntu 11.10 will be installed on your Windows7 based PC.