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FOUNDATION & ENVIRONMENT BUILDING
Overview
I built a dedicated learning environment using VirtualBox and an Ubuntu virtual machine. The goal was to create a safe place to experiment with Linux, networking, and security tools without risking my daily machine.
(How to Set Up an Home Lab)
Objectives
Install VirtualBox and configure an Ubuntu Virtual Machine.
Practice basic Linux workflows in a controlled environment.
Document a rebuild checklist for fast recovery and versioning.
Prerequisites
Hardware: 20 GB free storage, 4 GB or more memory, stable internet.
Host operating system: Windows or macOS.
Software: VirtualBox installer and Ubuntu Desktop ISO image.
Tools and technologies
VirtualBox, Ubuntu Desktop, Virtual Machine snapshots, ISO management
Implementation
Install VirtualBox
Download the correct installer for my operating system and complete the setup.
On Windows I allowed network interface changes when prompted. On macOS I launched from Applications.
Download Ubuntu Desktop ISO
I grabbed the latest stable Ubuntu Desktop image.
On Apple Silicon I used the appropriate image to match the processor architecture.
Create the Virtual Machine in VirtualBox
New VM: Name Ubuntu, Type Linux, Version Ubuntu 64 bit.
Memory: 2 GB minimum, 4 GB preferred.
Disk: VirtualBox Disk Image (VDI), Dynamically allocated, 20 GB.
Attach ISO: Settings, Storage, choose the downloaded ISO as the optical drive.
Unattended install credentials recorded in my vault.
Install Ubuntu
Start the VM, choose Install Ubuntu, normal installation, download updates while installing.
Confirm disk changes inside the VM only, set my username and password, then restart and log in.
Troubleshooting that mattered
If VM fails to start, I tuned System settings and enabled Extensible Firmware Interface if required.
If I saw Intel VT x or AMD V errors, I enabled virtualization in Basic Input Output System or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface.
If performance lagged, I increased video memory to 128 MB and reduced animations in Ubuntu.
Outcomes
A reproducible Linux lab that I can snapshot, clone, and restore.
A baseline for future projects like firewalls, penetration testing, and virtual private networks.
Skills demonstrated
Virtualization setup, host to guest tuning, ISO management.
Linux user and system configuration.
Documentation and rebuild discipline.
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