How to use the command 'VBoxManage export' (with examples)

The VBoxManage export command is a versatile tool provided by VirtualBox for exporting virtual machines (VMs). This command allows users to package virtual machines into a portable format — either as an Open Virtualization Format (OVF) or Optical Vision Appliance (OVA), which can then be imported into another system or uploaded to a cloud service. This capability is invaluable for those who need to migrate VMs between environments or share them with others. The flexibility provided by VBoxManage export makes it a cornerstone for VirtualBox users dealing with VM distribution and transportation.

Specify the target OVA file

Code:

VBoxManage export --output path/to/filename.ova

Motivation:

When exporting a virtual machine, specifying the target OVA file is crucial. An OVA file is a single archive format that packages all of the virtual machine files into one file, making it convenient for distribution or backup purposes. By exporting to a specified filename, users can ensure that the VM is preserved in a format that is widely recognized and easy to deploy in different systems. This is particularly useful when migrating VMs to another host or sharing them with others who require a standardized VM package.

Explanation:

• VBoxManage export: This is the command used to initiate the export of a VM from VirtualBox.
• --output path/to/filename.ova: This argument specifies the path and filename for the exported OVA file. The location can be absolute or relative, depending on where you want the OVA file to be saved.

Example output:

0%...10%...20%...Progress indicator shows the export process...100%
Exporting virtual machine to 'path/to/filename.ova'...
Export completed successfully.

Export in OVF 0.9 legacy mode

Code:

VBoxManage export --legacy09

Motivation:

The OVF 0.9 legacy mode is designed for compatibility with older virtualization environments that may not support newer versions of the OVF standard. If you are exporting a VM to be used on older systems, specifying the --legacy09 option ensures that the exported files conform to the OVF 0.9 specification. This enhances interoperability with legacy systems and prevents any unexpected issues that could arise from incompatibility with newer OVF features.

Explanation:

• VBoxManage export: Invokes the export functionality of VirtualBox.
• --legacy09: This option sets the export format to OVF 0.9, ensuring compatibility with systems that require the older specification.

Example output:

0%...10%...Notice indicating export progress...100%
Exported in OVF 0.9 format to 'Your_VM_Name.ovf'.
Operation successful.

Export in OVF (0.9|1.0|2.0) format

Code:

VBoxManage export --ovf09|ovf10|ovf20

Motivation:

Different systems and environments may require different OVF version formats for VM imports. Specifying the OVF version during export allows users to match the VM export with the required target environment’s specifications. This flexibility is essential for ensuring compatibility across various systems, preventing issues during the import process, and adhering to specific organizational or infrastructural standards for VM deployment.

Explanation:

• VBoxManage export: Initiates the export process of a VM from VirtualBox.
• --ovf09|ovf10|ovf20: This option allows the user to specify the desired OVF version for the exported VM, providing control over which version is used based on compatibility needs or preferences.

Example output:

0%...10%...Notification during export process...100%
Virtual Machine exported as OVF 2.0 format successfully.
Saved as 'Your_VM_Name.ovf'.

Create manifest of the exported files

Code:

VBoxManage export --manifest

Motivation:

Creating a manifest file during export is an important step for VM verification and integrity checking. A manifest file contains checksums for the exported files, allowing users to validate the integrity of the files after the export and during transfers. This ensures that the VM files have not been tampered with or corrupted, which is essential for maintaining security and trust in the integrity of distributed VM packages.

Explanation:

• VBoxManage export: Performs the export function for a VM.
• --manifest: This option creates a manifest file that includes checksums of the exported files, serving as a verification tool for the integrity and authenticity of the VM package.

Example output:

0%...20%...50%...80%...Completion notification...100%
Export successful with manifest file created 'Your_VM_Name.mf'.

Specify a description of the VM

Code:

VBoxManage export --description "vm_description"

Motivation:

When sharing or distributing VMs, providing a clear description of the VM is beneficial for identification and usage instructions. This description can include pertinent information about the VM, such as its operating system, installed applications, configurations, or intended use. By attaching a description directly to the export process, users can ensure that future recipients of the VM understand its purpose and specification, facilitating its use and management.

Explanation:

• VBoxManage export: Begins the process of exporting a VM from VirtualBox.
• --description "vm_description": This option allows the user to provide a string of text as a description for the virtual machine, which can include any relevant details about the VM.

Example output:

0%...40%...70%...Finalizing...100%
Virtual machine 'Your_VM_Name' exported with description: "This virtual machine is running Ubuntu 20.04 with LAMP stack pre-installed."
Export successful.

Conclusion:

The VBoxManage export command provides a comprehensive suite of options for exporting VirtualBox VMs in a variety of formats and configurations. Whether aiming for compatibility with legacy systems, specifying precise OVF standards, managing file integrity through manifests, or adding informative descriptions, this command meets the diverse needs of VirtualBox users. By understanding and applying these use cases effectively, users can significantly enhance their VM management strategies, ensuring smooth transitions between different environments and maintaining the integrity and utility of their virtual machines.