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How to Create and Run Your First Ubuntu VM with KVM

21 November 2025bpd · ubuntu

A Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Virtual Machine

Once you have KVM installed, creating a virtual machine is a straightforward process using the Virtual Machine Manager application. The ‘Ubuntu System Administration Guide’ walks you through the entire setup, from downloading the OS to the final installation.

The Creation Process

  1. Download an ISO: First, you’ll need an installation image for the operating system you want to virtualize. You can download the latest Ubuntu Desktop ISO from the official website.
  2. Launch Virtual Machine Manager: Open the KVM management tool and click the ‘Create a new virtual machine’ button.
  3. Follow the Wizard: A setup wizard will guide you through the process. You’ll be asked to select the ISO file you downloaded, allocate resources like CPU cores and RAM, and define the size of the virtual hard disk.
  4. Install the OS: Once configured, the VM will boot from the ISO, and you can proceed with the standard Ubuntu installation, just as you would on a physical computer.

In just a few minutes, you’ll have a fully functional Ubuntu desktop running in a window on your current desktop.

This post is based from content of the book Ubuntu System adminstration guide. And the book can be found here https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mattias-Hemmingsson/author/B0FF5CQX13