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John  Ajera
John Ajera

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Creating an Ubuntu VM in Unraid

Introduction

Running an Ubuntu VM in Unraid provides a full Linux environment for development, testing, or server applications. This guide walks you through creating an Ubuntu VM using Unraid’s virtualization tools.

Steps

1. Enable Virtualization in Unraid

  • Log in to Unraid Web UI (http://your-unraid-ip).
  • Navigate to Settings > VM Manager.
  • Set Enable VMs to Yes and click Apply.

2. Upload Ubuntu ISO to Unraid

  • Go to Shares > Open the isos share.
  • Upload the Ubuntu ISO file (ubuntu-XX.XX.iso).

3. Create a New VM

  • Go to VMs > Click Add VM > Select Ubuntu.
  • Configure VM settings:
    • Autostart: Enable to start the VM automatically on boot.
    • Name: Ubuntu-VM
    • CPU Cores: At least 2 cores.
    • Memory: At least 2GB (2048MB).
    • BIOS Type: OVMF for UEFI or SeaBIOS for legacy boot.
    • Install ISO: Select the uploaded Ubuntu ISO.
    • Primary vDisk Size: At least 20GB.
    • vDisk Bus: VirtIO for best performance.
    • Graphics Card: VNC unless using GPU passthrough.
  • Click Create.

4. Start and Install Ubuntu

  • Locate the VM under VMs.
  • Click on the VM's dropdown menu and select VM Console (VNC).
  • If the VM is not running, select Start first, then open VM Console (VNC).
  • Follow the Ubuntu installation steps and configure user settings.
  • Once installed, remove the ISO from the VM settings and restart the VM.

  • Locate the VM under VMs.

  • Click Start, then VNC Remote to open the VM console.

  • Follow the Ubuntu installation steps and configure user settings.

  • Once installed, remove the ISO and restart the VM.

5. Optimize with VirtIO Drivers (Optional)

  • Install VirtIO drivers for better performance:
  sudo apt update && sudo apt install -y qemu-guest-agent
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6. Manage the VM

  • Start/Stop: Use the VMs tab in Unraid.
  • Adjust CPU/RAM: Edit VM settings as needed.
  • Access via SSH:
  ssh username@vm-ip
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Conclusion

You have successfully created an Ubuntu VM in Unraid for testing, development, or server use. 🚀


Have questions? Drop a comment below!

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