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

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

Conclusion

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

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Have questions? Drop a comment below!