virtualbox.org

What does selecting the guests operating system and version when creating a new VM actually do and how does it impact performance?

For example, what is the difference between selecting "Linux 2.6x / 3.0x / 4.0x" and "Other Linux" ?

Additionally, what are the optimal settings if attempting to dual-boot between two very distinct operating systems such as Linux and Windows?

Thanks!

The option has nothing to do with performance. It is about creating a VM which will be compatible with the intended guest OS. In particular, passing the correct CPU features to the guest (so Win8.1 sees NX, a 64bit OS sees a 64bit host CPU, etc). Also that the VM simulates hardware for which we know the selected OS has built in drivers.

Why would you want to dual boot a VM? Use two different VMs.

Thanks!

I'm attempting at dual-booting in VirtualBox to learn more about the MBR, bootloader and how the different types of partitioning schemes work with multiple operating systems.

Just a more convenient way to do this instead of losing your entire working hard disk if something goes south in the process.