Set Up an Ubuntu Linux Virtual Machine on VMware Fusion: Step-by-Step Guide

Running Ubuntu Linux in a virtual machine is an excellent way to experiment, develop, or isolate tasks without affecting your main system. In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up a fully functional Ubuntu VM using VMware Fusion, step by step.

This walkthrough uses the latest Ubuntu LTS Desktop edition, but the process applies to most recent versions. Whether you're learning Linux, testing server configurations, or building a development environment, this guide helps you create a secure, flexible Ubuntu VM in minutes.

By the end, you’ll have a clean, bootable Ubuntu Linux virtual machine. It will be ideal for testing, development, and system administration tasks. Let’s begin.

Step 1: Install VMware Fusion #

Install using Homebrew:

bash 
brew install --cask vmware-fusion

Step 2: Download Linux ISO #

Use the LTS version for maximum stability and long-term security updates.

Step 3: Set Up VM #

Create #

  • Open VMware Fusion
  • Go to File > New
  • Select ISO file
  • Click Customize Settings
    • Rename the VM: <distribution>-<version>.vmwarevm
    • Example: ubuntu-24.04.vmwarevm
    • Uncheck Share this virtual machine with other users

Configure #

System Settings

  • Sharing
    • Name: vm-shared
    • Folder: ~/documents/vm-shared
    • Permissions: Read & Write
  • Keyboard and Mouse
    • Profile: Mac
  • Processors and Memory
    • Processors: 2
    • Memory: 4 GB (4000 MB)
  • Display
    • Accelerate 3D Graphics: Enabled
    • Shared Graphics Memory: Maximum (recommended)
    • Use Full Resolution for Retina Display: Enabled

Removable Devices Settings

  • Run VM from SSD for best performance.

  • Pre-allocate disk space to prevent fragmentation and performance drops.

  • Turn off unused devices to free up system resources.

  • Hard disk:
    • File name: .vmdk
    • Disk size: 50 GB
    • Bus type: SCSI
    • Pre-allocate disk space: Enabled
    • Split into multiple files: Enabled
  • CD/DVD:
    • Select disk image: Choose .iso file
    • Bus type: SATA
  • Disabled devices:
    • Sound card: Removed
    • Floppy drive: Removed

Other Settings

  • Startup Disk
    • Hard disk (SCSI): Enabled
  • Encryption
    • Not encrypted
  • Isolation
    • Enable drag and drop: Enabled
    • Enable copy and paste: Enabled
  • Advanced
    • Synchronize time: Enabled
    • Firmware type: Legacy BIOS

Step 4: Install Linux #

  • Keyboard layout: English (US)
  • Account:
    • Display name: <user>
    • Account name: <user>
    • Password: ****
    • Computer name: vm
  • Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi: Enabled

Next Steps #

Now that your Ubuntu VM is ready, here are common use cases:

  • Running Developer Tools
    Use apt to install CLI tools, languages, and libraries without affecting your host.
  • Testing Scripts and Configurations
    Safely develop and test Bash scripts, systemd services, dotfiles, or package installs in an isolated environment.
  • Learning and Experimentation
    Explore Linux internals, practise administration tasks, or prototype workflows without risk to your main system.
  • Web and Server Development
    Use the VM to run Nginx, Apache, databases, or containers for local development and testing.
  • Security and Hardening Practice
    Try firewall rules, SSH hardening, permission tuning, and monitoring setups in a safe sandbox.