Run virtual machines in Gnome Boxes
Boxed
© Lead Image © yarruta, 123RF.com and gnome photo by David Brooke Martin on Unsplash
In the past, using virtual machines required expensive programs such as VMware or open source add-ons such as VirtualBox. Gnome Boxes brings a convenient virtualization option to the Linux desktop.
If you want to set up a virtual machine (VM) with a graphical user interface on Linux, you might be inclined to go with VirtualBox or VMware's commercial offerings. These applications, which have been established for years, offer many functions. However, due to their full version's proprietary licenses, they are not found in the package sources of popular Linux distributions.
With VirtualBox, you would have to install the Extension Pack alongside the program to use the application's full functionality. In addition, it is important to pay attention to licences. VirtualBox's source code is released under the GPL v2.0, but you can only use the proprietary add-on free of charge [1] for personal use or testing purposes.
Boxes Out of the Box
Because Gnome Boxes, a front-end tool for Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM), is created within the framework of the Gnome Desktop Environment [2], it does not require the installation of any additional software (see the "SPICE Mix" box). With KVM directly integrated into the Linux kernel, Boxes does not have to worry about virtualization. The software simply provides the VM with the environment, using existing libraries and applications such as libvirt and Qemu [3].
[...]
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
-
The Latest CachyOS Features Supercharged Kernel
The latest release of CachyOS brings with it an enhanced version of the latest Linux kernel.
-
Kernel 7.0 Is a Bit More Rusty
Linux kernel 7.0 has been released for general availability, with Rust finally getting its due.
-
France Says "Au Revoir" to Microsoft
In a move that should surprise no one, France announced plans to reduce its reliance on US technology, and Microsoft Windows is the first to get the boot.
-
CIQ Releases Compatibility Catalog for Rocky Linux
The company behind Rocky Linux is making an open catalog available to developers, hobbyists, and other contributors, so they can verify and publish compatibility with the CIQ lineup.
-
KDE Gets Some Resuscitation
KDE is bringing back two themes that vanished a few years ago, putting a bit more air under its wings.
-
Ubuntu 26.04 Beta Arrives with Some Surprises
Ubuntu 26.04 is almost here, but the beta version has been released, and it might surprise some people.
-
Ubuntu MATE Dev Leaving After 12 years
Martin Wimpress, the maintainer of Ubuntu MATE, is now searching for his successor. Are you the next in line?
-
Kali Linux Waxes Nostalgic with BackTrack Mode
For those who've used Kali Linux since its inception, the changes with the new release are sure to put a smile on your face.
-
Gnome 50 Smooths Out NVIDIA GPU Issues
Gamers rejoice, your favorite pastime just got better with Gnome 50 and NVIDIA GPUs.
-
System76 Retools Thelio Desktop
The new Thelio Mira has landed with improved performance, repairability, and front-facing ports alongside a high-quality tempered glass facade.