VirtualBox Extension Pack Installation for Windows & MacOS

Understanding VirtualBox Extension Pack

VirtualBox Extension Pack is an additional component for Oracle VM VirtualBox that enhances its functionality by providing features such as USB 2.0 and 3.0 support, VirtualBox Remote Desktop Protocol (VRDP), disk encryption, and support for NVMe and PXE boot for Intel cards. This pack is essential for users who need advanced features beyond the basic VirtualBox installation. The Extension Pack is compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Installing VirtualBox Extension Pack Using the GUI

Installing the VirtualBox Extension Pack via the graphical user interface (GUI) is the most straightforward method. Follow these steps:

• Download the Extension Pack:

- Visit the official VirtualBox website.

- Under the "VirtualBox Extension Pack" section, download the latest version matching your installed VirtualBox version.

• Open VirtualBox

-Launch VirtualBox on your system.

• Access Preferences

- Click on File in the top menu.

- Select Preferences and navigate to the Extensions tab.

• Install the Extension Pack

- Click on the + (Add) button.

- Browse and select the downloaded Extension Pack file(.vbox-extpack).

- Click Install and accept the license agreement

• Confirm Installation

- If prompted, enter your administrator credentials.

- Wait for the installation to complete and ensure the Extension Pack is listed under the Extensions tab.

Alternative Method: Installing VirtualBox Extension Pack via CLI

For advanced users, the Command Line Interface (CLI) provides an efficient way to install the VirtualBox Extension Pack. This method is useful when working on remote servers or automating installations.

Installing VirtualBox Extension Pack on Windows via CLI

• Download the Extension Pack

- Open PowerShell or Command Prompt.

- Use the following command to download the Extension Pack (replace X.Y.Z with the latest version):

curl -o VBoxExtPack.vbox-extpack

• Install the Extension Pack

- Run the following command in Command Prompt

VBoxManage extpack install VBoxExtPack.vbox-extpack

- Accept the license agreement when prompted.

• Verify Installation

- Use the command

VBoxManage list extpacks

- This should display the installed Extension Pack details.

Installing VirtualBox Extension Pack on macOS via CLI

• Download the Extension Pack:

- Open Terminal and use:

curl -o VBoxExtPack.vbox-extpack

• Install the Extension Pack:

​Execute:

sudo VBoxManage extpack install VBoxExtPack.vbox-extpack

​Enter the administrator password and confirm the license agreement.

• Check Installation:

Run:

VBoxManage list extpacks

This should confirm the successful installation.

Installing VirtualBox Extension Pack on Linux via CLI

• Download the Extension Pack:

- Use the following command in Terminal:

wget
​https://download.virtualbox.org/virtualbox/X.Y.Z/Oracle_VM_VirtualBox_Extension_Pack-X.Y.Z.vbox-extpack 

• Install the Extension Pack:

- Run:

sudo VBoxManage extpack install
Oracle_VM_VirtualBox_Extension_Pack-X.Y.Z.vbox-extpack

​- Accept the license terms when prompted.

• Verify Installation:

- Check using:

VBoxManage list extpacks

​- Ensure the output lists the installed Extension Pack.

Conclusion

The VirtualBox Extension Pack is a crucial addition for users requiring enhanced VirtualBox capabilities. Whether using the GUI or CLI, the installation process is simple and effective on Windows, macOS, and Linux. By following the steps outlined above, users can easily install and verify the Extension Pack, ensuring a seamless virtualization experience.