How to Install KVM on Ubuntu 24.04
You install KVM on Ubuntu 24.04 to turn your PC into a powerful virtualization host.
KVM, short for Kernel-based Virtual Machine, is Linux’s built-in virtualization technology. It transforms your Linux kernel into a hypervisor, letting you run multiple isolated operating systems, known as guest machines, directly on your hardware.
This method leverages the performance, security, and updates of the Linux kernel itself. You’ll likely choose KVM if you need a robust solution integrated directly into Ubuntu 24.04, offering an alternative to software like VirtualBox or VMware.
Once set up, you can manage your virtual machines through user-friendly tools like virt-manager or powerful command-line utilities such as virt-install.
Install KVM by first checking CPU compatibility with `sudo apt install cpu-checker` and `sudo kvm-ok`. Then, install the necessary packages using `sudo apt install qemu-kvm virt-manager libvirt-clients bridge-utils libvirt-daemon-system virtinst`. Finally, add your user to the libvirt and kvm groups with `sudo usermod -aG libvirt $USER` and `sudo usermod -aG kvm $USER`.
Check KVM Support on Ubuntu
Your computer’s processor needs to support KVM for it to work on Ubuntu. To check if your CPU is ready for KVM on Ubuntu, you’ll first install a handy tool called cpu-checker and then run the kvm-ok command.
To check, run the commands below to install a tool that checks your CPU’s compatibility with KVM on Ubuntu Linux.
sudo apt install cpu-checker sudo kvm-ok
After running the commands above, check your CPU compatibility with KVM. If KVM is compatible, you should see the message KVM acceleration can be used.
INFO: /dev/kvm exists
KVM acceleration can be used
If KVM isn’t compatible with your system, you’ll see a message that reads:
INFO: Your CPU does not support KVM extensions
KVM acceleration can NOT be used
The message above indicates that you can’t run KVM.
Install KVM Packages
After confirming your system supports KVM, the next step is to install the essential software packages needed to create and manage virtual machines on Ubuntu. You’ll use the apt install command to get qemu-kvm, virt-manager, and other important tools.
sudo update
sudo apt install qemu-kvm virt-manager libvirt-clients bridge-utils libvirt-daemon-system virtinst
After installing the KVM modules, run the commands below to start them and enable them to begin automatically when your system boots.
sudo systemctl start libvirtd sudo systemctl enable libvirtd
Add a User to libvirt and KVM Groups
To manage your virtual machines easily, you’ll need to add your user account to the special ‘libvirt’ and ‘kvm’ groups on Ubuntu.
Run the command below to add your account to these groups.
sudo usermod -aG libvirt $USER
sudo usermod -aG kvm $USER
Create New VMs
Now that KVM is all set up on your Ubuntu system, you can start building your first virtual computer using the virtual machine manager tool. Simply open the manager, click ‘New Virtual Machine’, and follow the prompts to choose how you want to install your new operating system.
First, connect to the server, then create a new machine by clicking ‘New Virtual Machine’.
Next, choose how you want to install the guest machine. You can use local ISO media or install it via network or PXE boot.
Once you’ve selected the OS file, you’ll configure a local disk, system memory, and other settings.
When you’re done, boot the VM to install Ubuntu.
That should do it!
Conclusion:
- KVM provides an efficient and powerful virtualization solution for Ubuntu 20.04 users.
- It allows creating and managing multiple virtual machines, leveraging the Linux kernel’s capabilities.
- Users can choose from various installation sources, including local ISOs and network installations.
- Adding user accounts to the appropriate groups ensures smooth management of virtual machines.
- With tools like virt-manager, users can easily configure and monitor their virtual environments.
- KVM is a robust alternative for users unable to utilize VirtualBox or VMware, emphasizing performance and integration with Linux systems.
Does the Ubuntu server support KVM?
Unlike VMware or VirtualBox, KVM is a Type 1 hypervisor. This means it runs directly on the hardware with minimal overhead. This guide covers installing and verifying a working KVM stack on Ubuntu Server.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!