VirtualBox installation with CentOS Stream 9 creates the perfect Linux learning environment. This guide will show you how to install VirtualBox and set up a professional-grade virtual machine for development and testing.
VirtualBox Benefits
When you install VirtualBox, you get a safe, isolated environment to experiment with Linux configurations. Combined with CentOS Stream 9’s stability, it’s ideal for both learning and professional development.
System Requirements
Before you install VirtualBox, check these requirements:
Hardware
4GB RAM (8GB recommended), 20GB+ free space
Virtualization
VT-x/AMD-V enabled in BIOS settings
Internet
Required for downloads (~4GB total)
Step 1: Install VirtualBox
Download and Setup
To install VirtualBox properly:
- Download from official site
- Choose correct version for your OS
- Run installer with admin privileges
- Accept all default options
- Complete the installation

Step 2: Configure Virtual Machine
VM Settings
- Launch VirtualBox
- Click “New”
- Name: “CentOS-Stream-9”
- Type: Linux
- Version: Red Hat (64-bit)
- Memory: 2048MB minimum
- Create virtual disk (20GB+, VDI format)
Step 3: Install CentOS Stream 9
OS Installation
- Attach CentOS ISO in Storage settings
- Start the VM
- Select “Install CentOS Stream 9”
- Choose language/keyboard
- Use automatic partitioning
- Set root password and create user
- Begin installation (20-30 minutes)

Step 4: Post-Installation
First-Time Setup
- Update packages:
sudo dnf update -y
- Install essentials:
sudo dnf install vim git curl
- Install Guest Additions for better performance
- Configure shared folders if needed
Ready for Linux Development
You’ve successfully created a VirtualBox environment with CentOS Stream 9. This sandbox is perfect for:
- Learning Linux commands
- Testing configurations
- Developing server applications
Enhance your skills with our Complete Linux Tutorial for comprehensive system administration training.