To create a Linux VM, you’ll need some virtualisation software. Since the two operating systems exist side by side, you also have the freedom to switch between the two whenever you like, so you get the best of both worlds.

Inside the window, you’re in the Linux OS, and when you move outside this window you’re in the regular macOS – it’s as easy as that! This setup gives you a taste of the Linux experience, without requiring you to do anything drastic such as wiping macOS from your machine (something that isn’t easy to reverse).

This emulated Linux environment will run in its own window, just like any other software program. Since it’s the easiest, and the least scary option, let’s start by using virtualisation software to create a Linux VM that’ll run alongside our existing macOS. Throughout this article I’ll be using Ubuntu, as it’s generally seen as the best starting point for new Linux users, but after mastering Ubuntu you may want to move onto more advanced or experimental versions of Linux – some possible alternatives include Linux Mint, Fedora and Debian. There’s a few different versions, or “distributions” of Linux available. I’ll also show you how to permanently replace macOS with Linux, effectively turning your Mac into a whole new Linux computer. In this article I’m going to show you a quick and easy way of experiencing Linux on your Mac, by creating a virtual Linux environment that runs inside your regular macOS.

Since Linux is designed to run on everything from mobile phones upwards, it can also be a great way of breathing new life into an old Mac – even if your Mac is so old that it’s no longer compatible with the latest macOS releases, then it may still be compatible with the latest version of Linux. One of the most popular alternatives to macOS, is Linux a powerful and versatile OS that’s particularly popular with software developers. You can actually trial many different operating systems (OS) on your Mac, and can even completely replace macOS with the operating system of your choice. If you’re curious to see whether the grass really is greener on the other side, then you don’t need to do something drastic like purchase a new computer.

Have you ever wanted to try out a completely different operating system?

Install linux on old macbook