Setting Up Hyper-V and Installing Ubuntu Server – The Right Way

Running Ubuntu Server on Hyper-V turns any Windows machine into a flexible, virtualized environment. This guide covers setting up Hyper-V, installing Ubuntu Server, and configuring it for optimal performance.

Prerequisites

• Windows 10/11 Pro or Enterprise (Hyper-V is not available on Home editions)
• 64-bit processor with virtualization enabled (check BIOS/UEFI settings)
• At least 8GB RAM (16GB+ recommended for better VM performance)
• Ubuntu Server ISO (Download Here)

Enabling Hyper-V on Windows

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

   Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Hyper-V-All -NoRestart
   

2. Restart your system to apply changes.
3. After reboot, search for Hyper-V Manager in the Start Menu and open it.

Creating a Virtual Machine for Ubuntu Server

1. In Hyper-V Manager, click New > Virtual Machine.
2. Set a name (e.g., “UbuntuServer”) and choose Generation 2.
3. Assign at least 2GB RAM (4GB+ recommended).
4. Select “Use Dynamic Memory” to optimize resource allocation.
5. Create a Virtual Hard Disk (20GB minimum).
6. Under Installation Options, select Install an operating system from a bootable image file and choose your Ubuntu Server ISO.

Installing Ubuntu Server

1. Start the VM and boot from the Ubuntu ISO.
2. Follow the installation wizard:
   • Select language, time zone, and keyboard layout.
   • Configure network settings.
   • Partition the disk (guided install recommended).
   • Set up a user account and hostname.
   • Choose any optional features (OpenSSH recommended for remote access).
3. Finish the installation and reboot.

Post-Installation Configuration

1. Install Hyper-V Integration Services (for better performance):

   sudo apt update && sudo apt install linux-virtual linux-cloud-tools-virtual
   

2. Enable Remote SSH Access:

   sudo systemctl enable --now ssh
   

Your Ubuntu Server is now running on Hyper-V, ready for use.