VirtualBox

VirtualBox is a general-purpose full virtualizer for x86 hardware. Targeted at server, desktop and embedded use, it is now the only professional-quality virtualization solution that is also Open Source Software. Quoted from VirtualBox home page.

This page discusses the use of VirtualBox on Ubuntu host systems. We use the software to run other operating systems such Windows XP and vista, in order to document procedures or help clients who run such software.

Using shared folders

This applies for Windows XP and Vista guest OS.

1. Install Guest Additions (Devices > Install Guest Additions)
2. Click on folder icon on the bottom of the VirtualBox
3. Create a new shared folder: select a directory on Host and choose a name (e.g. my_shared_folder)
4. On a command shell (cmd) type this command

net use x: \\vboxsrv\my_shared_folder

1. Where x: is a free device letter.
2. You should now be able to browse the shared folder by going to "My Computer" on the guest OS

Running Windows Vista guest OS

Windows Vista needs about a 20GB virtual disk for smooth running and at least 1GB of host memory

Importing Firefox

• Install Firefox on Vista
• Run Firefox the first time (this creates the default user profile)
• Navigate to the default folder in
• C:\Users\Human\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles

Creating a new profile

• Close the application and make sure that it is not running in the background.
• Thunderbird, Mozilla Suite or SeaMonkey: Use the "Profile Manager" shortcut located in the Start -> Programs Menu (if available) or use the below instructions, substituting thunderbird.exe mozilla.exe or seamonkey.exe in place of firefox.exe.
• Firefox: See Creating a new Firefox profile on Windows for a step by step guide with screenshots, or follow these instructions:
• Enter "firefox.exe -profilemanager" in "Start Search"