Linux System Administration

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Introduction to Linux System Administration

Set Up Your Virtual Learning Environment

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Learning Environment Setup: VMware & Ubuntu

VMware Workstation 17 Player & Ubuntu Desktop Installation Guide

Why a Virtual Learning Environment?

A virtual machine (VM) allows you to run an operating system inside another operating system. This is incredibly useful for learning, testing, and developing without risking your main computer’s stability. VMware Workstation 17 Player is a popular choice for personal use, and Ubuntu Desktop is an excellent Linux distribution for beginners and advanced users alike.

By following this guide, you’ll set up a safe, isolated environment where you can practice server administration, coding, and various IT skills.

Prerequisites

  • A host computer (Windows or Linux) with at least:
    • **8GB RAM** (16GB or more recommended for smoother experience)
    • **Dual-core CPU** (Quad-core or more recommended)
    • **50GB Free Disk Space** (SSD highly recommended)
    • **Hardware Virtualization Enabled** in your computer’s BIOS/UEFI (e.g., Intel VT-x or AMD-V). This is usually enabled by default.
  • An active internet connection.

Part 1: Install VMware Workstation 17 Player

VMware Workstation 17 Player is free for personal, non-commercial use.

1.1 Download VMware Workstation 17 Player

Visit the official VMware website to download the installer for your operating system (Windows or Linux).

Download VMware Workstation Player

Choose the version for your host OS (Windows or Linux).

1.2 Install VMware Workstation 17 Player

**For Windows:**

  1. Locate the downloaded `.exe` file and run it as an administrator.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions. Typically, you can choose “Typical” installation.
  3. Accept the license agreement.
  4. Choose whether to check for product updates on startup and join the Customer Experience Improvement Program (CEIP).
  5. Select the installation location (default is usually fine).
  6. Click “Install” and wait for the process to complete.
  7. Click “Finish” and restart your computer if prompted.

**For Linux:**

  1. Open a terminal.
  2. Navigate to the directory where you downloaded the installer (e.g., `cd ~/Downloads`).
  3. Make the installer executable:
    chmod +x VMware-Player-*.bundle
  4. Run the installer with `sudo`:
    sudo ./VMware-Player-*.bundle
  5. Follow the graphical installer prompts. Accept the EULA, choose installation options, and provide your password when asked.
  6. Once installed, you can launch VMware Workstation Player from your applications menu.

Part 2: Download Ubuntu Desktop (Latest LTS Version)

We recommend downloading the latest LTS (Long Term Support) version of Ubuntu Desktop, as it provides stability and long-term support.

2.1 Download Ubuntu Desktop ISO

Visit the official Ubuntu website to download the ISO image.

Download Ubuntu Desktop

Look for the latest LTS version (e.g., Ubuntu 24.04 LTS “Noble Numbat”). The file size will be around 5GB.

Part 3: Install Ubuntu in VMware Workstation Player

Now, let’s create a new virtual machine and install Ubuntu Desktop within it.

3.1 Create a New Virtual Machine

  1. Open **VMware Workstation 17 Player**.
  2. Click on **”Create a New Virtual Machine”**.
  3. In the New Virtual Machine Wizard:
    • Select **”Installer disc image file (iso)”**.
    • Click “Browse…” and navigate to the Ubuntu Desktop ISO file you downloaded.
    • Click “Next”.

3.2 Easy Install Information

VMware’s “Easy Install” feature automates much of the Ubuntu installation process.

  1. Enter your **Full Name**, **User name**, and a **Password**. Remember this password, as you’ll need it to log into Ubuntu.
  2. Click “Next”.

3.3 Name the Virtual Machine and Choose Location

  1. **Virtual machine name**: Give your VM a descriptive name, e.g., `Ubuntu 24.04 Learning`.
  2. **Location**: Choose a location on your hard drive where the VM files will be stored. Ensure it’s on a drive with enough free space (at least 50GB recommended).
  3. Click “Next”.

3.4 Specify Disk Capacity

  1. **Maximum disk size**: Set this to at least **25 GB** (50 GB is safer for learning and installing more software).
  2. Select **”Store virtual disk as a single file”** (generally recommended for simplicity).
  3. Click “Next”.

3.5 Customize Hardware (Optional but Recommended)

On the “Ready to Create Virtual Machine” screen, click **”Customize Hardware…”** to optimize performance.

  • **Memory**: Allocate at least **4096 MB (4 GB)**. If your host has 16GB+, you can go higher (e.g., 8192 MB / 8 GB).
  • **Processors**: Set to **2 cores** or more, depending on your host CPU.
  • **Network Adapter**: Ensure it’s set to **NAT** (default) for internet access.
  • Click “Close” when done.

Do NOT allocate more than half of your host’s RAM or CPU cores to avoid slowing down your main system.

3.6 Finish and Start Installation

  1. Click **”Finish”**.
  2. VMware will now automatically power on the virtual machine and begin the Ubuntu installation process.
  3. The “Easy Install” will handle most of the steps automatically. You’ll see the Ubuntu installer running within the VM window.
  4. Once the installation is complete, the VM will restart, and you should see the Ubuntu login screen.