When installing Ubuntu 20.04 on VirtualBox, you may encounter an ‘Input/Output Error.’ This error can be quite frustrating, but don’t worry, in this article, we will guide you through the steps to fix this issue.
Understanding the ‘Input/Output Error’
The ‘Input/Output Error’ usually indicates a problem with the installation media or the disk being installed to. This error can occur due to various reasons, such as a corrupted ISO file, issues with the CD/DVD, or even faults in the hard disk.
Possible Solutions
1. Check the Integrity of the ISO File
The first step is to ensure that the ISO file you’re using is not corrupted. You can check the integrity of the ISO file by comparing its hash value with the original one provided by the Ubuntu website.
To calculate the hash value, use the following command in the terminal:
sha256sum /path/to/your/isoReplace “/path/to/your/iso” with the actual path to your ISO file. This command will generate a hash value. Compare this value with the original one provided on the Ubuntu website. If the values match, your ISO file is not corrupted.
2. Clean the CD/DVD or Burn the Disk at a Lower Speed
If you’re using a physical CD/DVD for installation, ensure that it is clean and free from scratches. Also, burning the disk at a slower speed can help avoid errors during the installation process.
3. Check the Hard Disk for Faults
If the above solutions don’t work, the problem might be with the hard disk. Use the fsck command to check and repair the file system.
sudo fsck /dev/sdaReplace “/dev/sda” with your disk’s actual path. This command will check the disk for errors and repair them automatically.
4. Disable Hyper-V
Some users have reported that disabling Hyper-V can help fix the ‘Input/Output Error.’ To disable Hyper-V, open the Windows Features dialog box, uncheck the Hyper-V option, and click OK.
5. Upgrade VirtualBox
Upgrading VirtualBox to the latest version can also help resolve this issue. You can download the latest version from the official VirtualBox website.
6. Use Alternative Virtualization Software
If none of the above solutions work, consider using alternative virtualization software like VMWare.
7. Install a Different Ubuntu-based Distribution
Finally, if you’re still facing the issue, consider installing a different Ubuntu-based distribution like Linux Mint.
Conclusion
The ‘Input/Output Error’ when installing Ubuntu 20.04 in VirtualBox can be quite annoying, but it’s usually easy to fix. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve this issue and successfully install Ubuntu 20.04 in VirtualBox. If you’re still facing issues, consider reaching out to the VirtualBox or Ubuntu communities for further assistance.
To check the integrity of the ISO file, open the terminal and use the following command: sha256sum /path/to/your/iso. Replace "/path/to/your/iso" with the actual path to your ISO file. This command will generate a hash value. Compare this value with the original one provided on the Ubuntu website. If the values match, your ISO file is not corrupted.
If the ISO file is corrupted, you will need to download a new copy from the Ubuntu website. Make sure to download it from a reliable source and compare the hash value again to ensure its integrity.
To clean a physical CD/DVD, gently wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using any abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the disc. Make sure to wipe in a straight line from the center to the outer edge of the disc.
When burning the disk, you can usually adjust the burning speed in the CD/DVD burning software. Look for an option to set the burning speed and choose a lower value. Burning at a slower speed can help reduce errors during the installation process.
To disable Hyper-V, open the Windows Features dialog box by searching for "Turn Windows features on or off" in the Start menu. Uncheck the Hyper-V option in the list and click OK. You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
To upgrade VirtualBox, visit the official VirtualBox website and download the latest version for your operating system. Follow the installation instructions provided by VirtualBox to upgrade to the latest version.
If VirtualBox is not working for you, you can consider using alternative virtualization software like VMWare. VMWare offers a range of virtualization solutions that you can explore and choose from based on your requirements.
If none of the solutions mentioned in this article work, you can try installing a different Ubuntu-based distribution like Linux Mint. Alternatively, you can seek further assistance from the VirtualBox or Ubuntu communities, where experts and other users can provide guidance and support for troubleshooting the issue.
