$schemamarkup = get_post_meta(get_the_ID(), 'schemamarkup', true); if(!empty($schemamarkup)) { echo $schemamarkup; }

How to Switch from VirtualBox to KVM on GNU/Linux: Step-by-Step Migration Guide

May 7, 2025 | By the+gnu+linux+evangelist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Migrate from VirtualBox to KVM on GNU/Linux

Switch from VirtualBox to KVM to boost your performance and embrace Open Source.

This quick guide simplifies Linux virtualization with modern tools like KVM and QEMU.

Discover how to migrate virtual machines from VirtualBox to KVM on GNU/Linux in a few easy steps.

You can also use your Existing VirtualBox VMs in Virt-Manager by converting them following this Guide for VirtualBox VMs.

Why KVM is much Better and Faster for Linux VMs

KVM is faster because it integrates directly with the Linux kernel, providing high performance with minimal overhead.

Hardware virtualization support allows KVM to take advantage of Intel VT or AMD-V, offering better CPU utilization.

Low Latency is achieved with KVM’s ability to run VMs without significant delays, providing near-native performance.

Better resource allocation allows KVM to handle multiple VMs efficiently with flexible CPU, memory, and disk management.

Security is improved as KVM benefits from the Linux security features like SELinux, AppArmor, and seccomp.

Open-source and free, KVM provides a cost-effective solution with robust community support and frequent updates.

Wide compatibility ensures KVM works with various Linux distributions and supports both Linux and Windows guests.

How to Switch from VirtualBox to KVM on GNU/Linux: Step-by-Step Migration Guide
  1. 1. Installing KVM

    How to Get Started with KVM Virtualization on GNU/Linux

    KVM Linux Setup Guide
  2. 2. Running Virt-Manager

    Now to Launch Virt-Manager UI
    From Shell:

    virt-manager
    Or instead make use of the Desktop Launcher: Launching Virt-Manager
  3. 3. Creating Virt-Manager VM from ISO

    Now to Create a Virtual Machine
    (you can also use your existing VirtualBox VMs if applicable by following this Guide for VirtualBox VMs).
    First, Choose “+” on Top Bar:

    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Creating VM
    In case of “No hypervisor options…” Issue try with a Restart:
    sudo reboot

    Then confirm for Connection QEMU/KVM and Local Install ISO.
    And then Browse for the Media Location:

    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Loading ISO
    If prompted accept to Set Permission:
    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Set Permission

    After Set Up RAM Size and CPU Cores:

    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Setting VM

    Again Set VM Disk Size:

    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Setting Disk Size

    Finally, Set VM Name:

    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Naming
    Possibly enable the Virtual Network:
    Virt-Manager Create New VM from ISO Visual Guide - Enabling Virtual Network
    And finally, confirm with to Start for Installation!
  4. 6. Launching Virtual Machine

    Finally, Launch & Enjoy QEMU Virtual Machine.

    Installing GNU/Linux Virtual Machine on Virt-Manager
    Desktop

So Now I’m truly Happy if My Guide could Help you to Quick-Start with Virt-Manager on GNU/Linux!