GNOME Boxes

What is GNOME Boxes?

GNOME Boxes was introduced in 2014 as part of the GNOME Project to provide a simple way to run other operating systems on Linux. It builds on libvirt and QEMU, using a clean, drag‑and‑drop interface that hides most of the configuration complexity. The tool has matured over the years, with regular updates across major distributions.

Boxes targets users who need a quick, reliable VM without the overhead of full‑featured hypervisors. It is ideal for developers, students, or anyone who wants to test software in a sandboxed environment.

Compared with VMware Workstation, Boxes feels more integrated into the desktop and is easier to set up, but it lacks some advanced features like snapshot management and fine‑grained networking options.

Best for: Running guest OSes for testing or learning without complex configuration.

Key features of GNOME Boxes

• Uses libvirt/QEMU backend
• Simple drag‑and‑drop VM creation
• Automatic guest OS detection
• Snapshot support (basic)
• Remote host access via SSH
• Integration with GNOME Shell
• Supports ISO, disk image, or network install

Tips for Windows users

If you’re used to VMware Workstation, expect a more minimal interface: create a VM by dragging an ISO into the window, then adjust settings in the side panel. Guest OS files are stored in your home directory under .local/share/gnome-boxes. Shortcuts differ; use the GNOME menu or the keyboard shortcuts listed in the help. Workflow changes: Boxes auto‑detects network settings, so you won’t need to configure bridged adapters manually.