Configure Network Connectivity and Sharing Between a VirtualBox Host and Guest Virtual Machine
Struggling to share files or map network drives between your physical host and a VirtualBox virtual machine? In this tutorial, we show you how to set up a Host-Only Adapter to create a private network between your host and guest, allowing for seamless file sharing and connectivity.
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By default, VirtualBox uses NAT, which provides internet access but isolates the VM from the host. We walk through the entire configuration process, including enabling a second network adapter, identifying matching subnets with ipconfig, and adjusting Windows Defender Firewall settings to allow file and printer sharing. Whether you're using Windows 10 or Windows 11, these steps will help you bridge the gap between your physical and virtual environments.
00:00 - Connecting your VirtualBox Host and Guest VM
00:41 - Comparing IP addresses on the Host and Guest
02:14 - Step 1: Shutting down the VM to change settings
02:29 - Step 2: Enabling the "Host-Only Adapter" in VirtualBox
03:07 - Verifying the new IP address on the Guest VM
03:25 - Step 3: Configuring Windows Firewall for sharing
04:02 - Final Test: Accessing Guest files from the Host computer
04:27 - Troubleshooting: Usernames, Passwords, and Credential tips
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1 - Identify Current IPs: Open Command Prompt on both your host and guest VM. Run ipconfig to see your current network segments (typically 10.0.2.x for the guest).
2 - Shut Down the VM: Network adapter changes in VirtualBox must be made while the virtual machine is powered off.
3 - Enable Host-Only Adapter: In VirtualBox Manager, select your VM and go to Settings - Network. Select the Adapter 2 tab, check "Enable Network Adapter," and set "Attached to" to Host-only Adapter.
4 - Restart and Verify: Boot the VM and run ipconfig again. You should now see a second adapter with an IP address (e.g., 192.168.56.x) that matches the host's VirtualBox Host-Only Network subnet.
5 - Configure Firewall: On the guest VM, go to Windows Defender Firewall - Allow an app or feature. Click "Change settings" and ensure File and Printer Sharing is checked for your network type.
6 - Access the Share: On your host machine, open File Explorer and type the network path using the guest's computer name (e.g., \\vboxwin10).
7 - Authenticate: If prompted, enter the guest VM's local username and password to access the shared folders.
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