Tech Tip of the Day: How to make a Linux Virtual Machine using VMPlayer and Ubuntu

Description: Interested in what the Linux operating system is like? Don't want to affect your current system? Here is how to test a Linux OS in a virtual machine format without replacing your current operating system.

1. First you will want to download VMPlayer, a virtual machine tool, which can be done from VMware's website:
   
   http://www.vmware.com/products/player/
   
   
2. Once downloaded, you will want to download a Linux distribution file - we will be creating an Ubuntu virtual machine. Ubuntu can be downloaded via their site at the link below:
   
   http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop
   
   
3. Once the ISO (Image File) has been downloaded, we will want to open up VMPlayer and choose the option for Create a New Virtual Machine.
   
   
   
   
4. A new window will appear, choose the option for Installer Disc image file. Press the Browse option and locate your ISO file.
   
   
   
   
5. Click Next; choose Linux as the Guest Operating System. Choose the version as Ubuntu.
   
   
   
   
6. Give the virtual machine a name and choose where you want your virtual machine to be located.
   
   
   
   
7. Choose the maximum disc space that you want to give the virtual machine - the virtual machine will actually grow, but will run out of space once you reach your maximum limit, so be sure to allow some room for it to grow.
   
   
   
   
8. Click Next; verify your settings and Finish.
   
   
   
   
9. VMware Player will now boot into Linux - if it asks to install VMware tools, click Yes and install all updates it requires.

For more assistance contact Technical Support here.

What is NAS or Network Attached Storage?

Network Attached Storage/Server or as known as NAS is simply a storage device connected through a local network connection. For example, if a home office has several PCs connected to the same LAN, you can perform regular backups of each system to the same storage location. For both security and a disaster plan, it is critical that you have current copies of your operating system and personal files made on a weekly or at least a monthly basis. NAS is a great solution, because it offers larger storage capacity plus can be access from any PC within the local area network.

There are several options for network attached storage offered by Buffalo Technology, Seagate and Western Digital. Each NAS comes in a various size capacities ranging from 1Terabyte to 8Terabyte which provides 1000 – 8000 Gigabytes of storage capacity. In addition, each server has built-in file encryption and auto-backup features. These servers are also multi-compatible with most operating systems including Windows, Mac and Linux, and can connect up to 10 computers at once.

Here are some NAS product examples:

Seagate Black Armor
http://bit.ly/IyiSK

Buffalo LinkStation
http://bit.ly/OH7WO

Western Digital My Book
http://bit.ly/flMfP5












Shop NAS on Microcenter.com »
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Reference:
Seagate. Network Storage Troubleshooter.
http://bit.ly/dItoYc

Seagate Black Armor
http://bit.ly/IyiSK

Buffalo LinkStation
http://bit.ly/OH7WO