In this article, we will delve into how to resolve a common issue encountered by users of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on Oracle VirtualBox – the blank screen issue. This problem typically occurs after a fresh installation and does not display any error messages, leaving users puzzled. We will explore several potential solutions to this problem, providing detailed steps and explanations.
To fix the blank screen issue in Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on Oracle VirtualBox, try adjusting the video memory settings, switching between display modes, or changing the graphics controller. These solutions have worked for some users, but may not work for everyone. If none of the suggested solutions work, it is recommended to check the VirtualBox forums or bug tracker for further assistance.
Understanding the Issue
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand the problem. When running Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on Oracle VirtualBox, users may encounter a blank screen upon booting. This issue is not accompanied by any error messages, making it challenging to diagnose. It is crucial to note that the solutions provided in this article may not work for everyone as the cause of the problem can vary based on the system configuration and settings.
Solution 1: Adjusting Video Memory Settings
One of the simplest potential solutions to this issue is to adjust the video memory settings in VirtualBox. Some users have reported that increasing the video memory to the maximum value (128 MB) has resolved the issue.
Here’s how you can adjust the video memory settings:
- Open the settings of your VirtualBox.
- Navigate to the Display section.
- Under the Screen tab, increase the Video Memory setting to 128 MB.
Solution 2: Switching Between Display Modes
Another workaround suggested by users is to switch between full screen and scaled mode in VirtualBox. Some users have reported that switching to scaled mode and then back to full screen resolves the blank screen issue.
Here’s how you can switch between display modes:
- Open the settings of your VirtualBox.
- Navigate to the Display section.
- Under the Screen tab, toggle between full screen and scaled mode.
Solution 3: Changing the Graphics Controller
Changing the graphics controller to VBoxSVGA or VBoxVGA has been reported to solve the problem for some users. This can be done by going to the VirtualBox settings, navigating to the Display section, and under the Screen tab, selecting the desired graphics controller.
Here’s how you can change the graphics controller:
- Open the settings of your VirtualBox.
- Navigate to the Display section.
- Under the Screen tab, select VBoxSVGA or VBoxVGA from the Graphics Controller dropdown.
Final Thoughts
While the solutions provided in this article have helped some users resolve the blank screen issue in Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on Oracle VirtualBox, they may not work for everyone. It is possible that this issue is a bug that needs to be addressed by Oracle. If none of the suggested workarounds work for you, it may be helpful to check the VirtualBox forums or bug tracker for any known issues or updates related to this problem.
Remember, troubleshooting is a process of elimination. It may take some time and patience to resolve the issue, but with a systematic approach, you should be able to overcome it. We hope this article has been helpful in your troubleshooting journey.
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS stands for Ubuntu 20.04 Long Term Support. It is a version of the Ubuntu operating system that is supported with updates and security patches for a longer period of time compared to other versions. LTS releases are typically recommended for users who prefer stability and long-term support.
The solutions provided in this article are specifically targeted for resolving the blank screen issue in Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on Oracle VirtualBox. While some of the solutions may work for other versions of Ubuntu or different virtualization software, it is not guaranteed. It is recommended to search for specific solutions tailored to your version of Ubuntu and virtualization software if you encounter similar issues.
