Virtual Machine and Dual-Boot Setup
A course needs Linux, a VM won't start, or you want Windows and Linux on the same laptop without losing anything. We set up VirtualBox, VMware, UTM, WSL or a proper dual boot.
Remote from $25 · Dual boot from $30 · Backup before any partition changes
Virtual machines let you run Linux or another copy of Windows inside your current system, which is what most courses and labs need. They fail for predictable reasons: virtualization switched off in the BIOS, Hyper-V or WSL conflicting with VirtualBox, too little memory given to the VM, or an Apple Silicon Mac that can't run x86 operating systems the usual way.
Dual booting puts two operating systems side by side on the drive, which gives Linux the full speed of your hardware. Done carelessly it can wipe a partition or trigger a BitLocker lockout, so we back up first and handle encryption and Secure Boot properly.
What We Set Up
VirtualBox and VMware Workstation
Installed, virtualization enabled in the BIOS, and Linux or Windows VMs created with sensible memory, disk and network settings.
Windows 11 in a VM
Including TPM and Secure Boot requirements that make Windows 11 VMs fail to install.
Apple Silicon Macs (M1 to M4)
UTM, VMware Fusion or VirtualBox with ARM versions of Linux and Windows, and an honest answer on what can't run well.
WSL2 on Windows
Ubuntu or another distribution in WSL2, with VS Code, Docker and your development tools working inside it.
Kali and course VMs
Kali Linux and other course-provided VM images imported and working, for security, networking and operating-systems courses.
Windows + Linux dual boot
Backup first, BitLocker handled, partitions resized safely, and a boot menu that works every time. Steam Deck dual boot too.
Virtual Machines on M1, M2, M3 and M4 Macs
Apple Silicon Macs run ARM operating systems in a VM well: ARM versions of Ubuntu, Fedora and Windows 11 run smoothly in UTM, VMware Fusion or recent VirtualBox. What they can't do quickly is run x86 operating systems, so an older Intel-only VM image from a course will be slow under emulation or won't run at all.
We'll check what your course needs and find the version that works on your Mac, or tell you plainly when a lab computer or remote environment is the better option.
Dual Boot Without Losing Your Files
Before changing any partitions we back up your files, and if the drive uses BitLocker or device encryption we save the recovery key and suspend it first, so Windows doesn't lock you out afterwards. Then we shrink Windows, install Linux alongside it, and test both operating systems from the boot menu.
If a VM would meet your needs, we'll suggest that instead: it's simpler and can't affect your Windows installation.
From First Message to Fixed
Step 1: Tell us what you need
Your laptop or Mac, the operating system or VM your course needs, and any errors.
Step 2: Set up remotely or in person
VMs and WSL usually remotely; dual boot at the workshop or on a visit, after a backup.
Step 3: Tested and explained
Both systems working, with how to start, stop and snapshot your VMs.
What It Costs
| Remote VM or WSL setup / troubleshooting | $25 |
| Linux install or Windows + Linux dual boot | From $30 |
| Longer lab or multi-VM setups | Quoted upfront |
VirtualBox, UTM and WSL are free, and VMware Workstation and Fusion are free for personal use. You get our price before we start. See full pricing.
Virtual Machines & Dual Boot FAQs
Why won't my virtual machine start?
Most often virtualization (Intel VT-x or AMD-V) is turned off in the BIOS, or Hyper-V is conflicting with VirtualBox. We enable the right settings and check the VM's memory and disk setup.
Can I run VirtualBox on an M1 or M2 Mac?
Recent VirtualBox versions run on Apple Silicon, but only with ARM operating systems. UTM and VMware Fusion are often easier. x86-only VM images won't run well on these Macs.
Is dual boot or a virtual machine better?
A VM is simpler and can't affect Windows, and suits most courses. Dual boot gives Linux the full speed of your hardware, which helps for heavy work. We'll recommend one for your situation.
Will dual booting delete my files?
Not when it's done properly. We back up first, deal with BitLocker before resizing, and only shrink Windows to make room.
Can you set up WSL for development on Windows 11?
Yes: WSL2 with Ubuntu, VS Code connected to it, and your tools like Python, Node, Git and Docker working inside it.
Related Ottawa Services
- Linux Support
- AI Coding Tools Setup
- Student Laptop Setup
- BitLocker Recovery Help
- PS5, Steam Deck & ROG Ally SSD
Serving Ottawa and nearby
Need Linux or a VM for Class?
Tell us your computer and what your course requires. We'll set it up so it works the first time.