Mastering Virtualization:
Installing KVM on Ubuntu 18.04
Embracing the power of virtualization opens a gateway to versatility and efficiency in computing. Among the myriad of virtualization solutions, Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) stands tall for its performance and native integration with Linux systems. In this guide, we delve into the art of installing KVM on Ubuntu 18.04, unlocking the doors to a dynamic virtual environment tailored to your needs.
Unveiling the Preparatory Steps
First, let’s ensure your Ubuntu 18.04 system is ready for the KVM installation journey. Start by confirming your CPU’s virtualization capabilities using the egrep command. This command sifts through the /proc/cpuinfo file to detect if your processor supports hardware virtualization extensions. Open your terminal and input egrep -c '(vmx|svm)' /proc/cpuinfo. A returned value of ‘0’ might mean your CPU lacks these extensions, while a result greater than ‘0’ signifies compatibility.
Following this, enable the hardware virtualization extensions from your BIOS or UEFI settings. Reboot your system and access the BIOS/UEFI by pressing the designated key during startup (often Del, F2, or F12). Navigate to the “Advanced” or “CPU Configuration” section and enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V technology. Save changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI to proceed with the installation.
Summoning KVM:
The Installation Process
Now, let’s embark on the exhilarating journey of installing KVM on your Ubuntu 18.04 system. Start by updating your system’s repositories to ensure you’re fetching the latest software packages. Open the terminal and type sudo apt update. This command refreshes the repository index, fetching the latest available versions of software.
Once the update completes, install the necessary packages for KVM by executing sudo apt install qemu-kvm libvirt-daemon-system libvirt-clients bridge-utils. These packages lay the groundwork for KVM to function seamlessly on your system. Throughout the installation, you might be prompted to confirm the download size and agree to additional disk space usage; proceed by typing ‘Y’ and hitting Enter.
Configuring Permissions and User Accessibility
With KVM now harmoniously residing on your Ubuntu 18.04 system, it’s pivotal to configure permissions for user accessibility. To grant your user account the ability to manage virtual machines, add yourself to the ‘libvirt’ and ‘kvm’ groups. Execute the following commands: sudo adduser <your_username> libvirt and sudo adduser <your_username> kvm. Replace <your_username> with your actual username.
To apply the changes without needing to log out and back in, refresh the group membership using newgrp libvirt and newgrp kvm. This grants you immediate access to manage KVM virtual machines without a hitch. Ensure the permissions are properly set by typing virsh list --all in the terminal. You should see no errors and a list (possibly empty) of defined virtual machines.
Creating Your First KVM Virtual Machine
The time has come to birth your inaugural KVM virtual machine, an exhilarating moment indeed. Utilize the ‘virt-manager’ graphical tool, a user-friendly interface that streamlines the process. Install ‘virt-manager’ via the terminal using sudo apt install virt-manager.
Once installed, launch ‘virt-manager’ from the application menu or execute virt-manager in the terminal. Click on ‘File’ and select ‘New Virtual Machine’ to initiate the creation wizard. Follow the intuitive steps, choosing the installation method (local ISO, network install, or PXE boot) and configuring the virtual machine specifications (CPU, memory, storage, etc.).
Upon completion, hit ‘Finish’ to create your first KVM virtual machine. Revel in the satisfaction of orchestrating a virtual entity within your Ubuntu 18.04 environment, ready to cater to your computing whims.
Embracing the KVM Ecosystem
Congratulations on successfully installing KVM on your Ubuntu 18.04 system! You’ve now entered the realm of versatile virtualization, with KVM as your stalwart companion. Explore the expansive KVM ecosystem, experiment with various virtual machine configurations, and harness the potential of this robust virtualization technology to optimize your computing experience. The journey has just begun; let KVM pave the way for a dynamic and efficient computing environment tailored to your needs.