Managing VirtualBox Virtual Machines (with examples)

VirtualBox is a powerful virtualization software that allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine. The virtualboxvm command-line tool provides a convenient way to manage VirtualBox virtual machines. In this article, we will explore different use cases of the virtualboxvm command, along with code examples and explanations for each argument.

1. Starting a Virtual Machine

To start a virtual machine, use the --startvm argument followed by the name or UUID of the virtual machine. This command will power on the virtual machine and initiate the boot process.

virtualboxvm --startvm MyVM

Motivation: This example demonstrates how to start a specific virtual machine named “MyVM”. By using the virtualboxvm command, you can easily initiate the boot process for a specific virtual machine without opening the VirtualBox user interface.

Explanation:

• --startvm: Indicates that the following argument specifies the name or UUID of the virtual machine to start.
• name|uuid: Specifies the name or UUID of the virtual machine.

Example Output: The virtual machine specified by the name “MyVM” will be started, and the operating system will begin the boot process.

2. Starting a Virtual Machine in Fullscreen Mode

To start a virtual machine in fullscreen mode, simply add the --fullscreen argument after the --startvm argument.

virtualboxvm --startvm MyVM --fullscreen

Motivation: This example demonstrates how to start a virtual machine in fullscreen mode, providing a seamless and immersive experience. By utilizing the --fullscreen option, the virtual machine will automatically adjust to fit the entire display, maximizing the utilization of the screen real estate.

Explanation:

• --fullscreen: Specifies that the virtual machine should be started in fullscreen mode.

Example Output: The specified virtual machine “MyVM” will be launched in fullscreen mode, occupying the entire screen with the virtual machine display.

3. Mounting a DVD Image File

To mount a DVD image file to a virtual machine, use the --dvd argument followed by the path to the image file. This will make the DVD image file accessible within the virtual machine.

virtualboxvm --startvm MyVM --dvd C:\path\to\image_file.iso

Motivation: This example showcases how to mount a DVD image file to a specific virtual machine. By using the --dvd option, you can easily provide the virtual machine with access to the contents of the DVD image file without the need for physical media.

Explanation:

• --dvd: Indicates that the following argument specifies the path to the DVD image file.
• path\to\image_file: Specifies the path to the DVD image file.

Example Output: The DVD image file located at “C:\path\to\image_file.iso” will be mounted within the virtual machine specified by “MyVM”, enabling access to its contents.

4. Displaying a Command-Line Window with Debug Information

To display a command-line window with debug information while starting a virtual machine, use the --debug-command-line argument after the --startvm argument.

virtualboxvm --startvm MyVM --debug-command-line

Motivation: This example illustrates how to launch a virtual machine while monitoring the underlying processes and debug information. The --debug-command-line option will spawn a separate command-line window displaying useful debug information, allowing you to observe the startup process and identify any potential issues.

Explanation:

• --debug-command-line: Specifies that a command-line window with debug information should be displayed.

Example Output: When executing the command, a command-line window will appear alongside the virtual machine startup process, providing detailed debug information about the launching process.

5. Starting a Virtual Machine in a Paused State

To start a virtual machine in a paused state, add the --start-paused argument after the --startvm argument.

virtualboxvm --startvm MyVM --start-paused

Motivation: This example demonstrates how to start a virtual machine in a paused state, postponing its execution until explicitly resumed. This can be useful for taking snapshots, performing troubleshooting, or preparing the virtual machine before allowing it to continue running.

Explanation:

• --start-paused: Specifies that the virtual machine should be started in a paused state.

Example Output: The specified virtual machine “MyVM” will be started but will remain in a paused state, halting its execution until manually resumed using the VirtualBox user interface or the vboxmanage command-line tool.

These examples highlight different use cases of the virtualboxvm command, providing a comprehensive understanding of its functionalities. By utilizing this command-line tool, managing VirtualBox virtual machines becomes more efficient and accessible, enabling seamless virtualization experiences.