Networking with VirtualBox
What VirtualBox Doesn't Tell You
Adapters configured in this way in any virtual machine are attached to a simulated switch on the same virtual network. Unfortunately, a DHCP server is not available in this mode, which means that you have to assign IP addresses manually. Although this is quite easy to set up, the GUI does not give you access to one of VirtualBox's more interesting functions: VirtualBox supports multiple, independent internal networks, which it can run in parallel.
Virtual LANs
To make it easier to identify the virtual LANs, a unique name is assigned to each network. By default, network cards that you set up via the GUI will connect to the internal network called intnet.
VBoxManage
If you need more LANs, there is no alternative to the VBoxManage command-line tool. The tool gives you a full-fledged text-based alternative to the GUI and also offers more in the line of settings. However, its use does entail typing long, cryptic chains of parameters.
To install a second interface (nic2) on a virtual machine called UbuntuVM on an internal LAN called MyNetwork, the modifyvm uses the following command line to modify the settings:
VboxManage modifyvm "UbuntuVM" -nic2 intnet -intnet2 "MyNetwork"
The internal network is like a closed box; without a second interface, the guest is unable to surf the Internet or access the physical LAN.
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Endless OS 6 has Arrived
After more than a year since the last update, the latest release of Endless OS is now available for general usage.
-
Fedora Asahi 40 Remix Available for Macs with Apple Silicon
If you've been anticipating KDE's Plasma 6 for your Apple Silicon-powered Mac, then you're in luck.
-
Red Hat Adds New Deployment Option for Enterprise Linux Platforms
Red Hat has re-imagined enterprise Linux for an AI future with Image Mode.
-
OSJH and LPI Release 2024 Open Source Pros Job Survey Results
See what open source professionals look for in a new role.
-
Proton 9.0-1 Released to Improve Gaming with Steam
The latest release of Proton 9 adds several improvements and fixes an issue that has been problematic for Linux users.
-
So Long Neofetch and Thanks for the Info
Today is a day that every Linux user who enjoys bragging about their system(s) will mourn, as Neofetch has come to an end.
-
Ubuntu 24.04 Comes with a “Flaw"
If you're thinking you might want to upgrade from your current Ubuntu release to the latest, there's something you might want to consider before doing so.
-
Canonical Releases Ubuntu 24.04
After a brief pause because of the XZ vulnerability, Ubuntu 24.04 is now available for install.
-
Linux Servers Targeted by Akira Ransomware
A group of bad actors who have already extorted $42 million have their sights set on the Linux platform.
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.