When dealing with virtualization, you might encounter scenarios where you must convert an IMG file to the VDI format.
Whether a beginner or an experienced user, you can easily transform IMG files into the VDI format using this step-by-step guide for performing this conversion in Oracle VirtualBox.
What Are VDI Files?
Virtual Disk Images or VDI files are the foundation of VirtualBox’s virtualization framework. They essentially simulate thevirtual hard diskfor a guest operating system within a Virtual Machine (VM). Unlike physical disks, VDI files can expand in size dynamically without compromising the data integrity. This adaptability guarantees that you can meet the increasing storage needs easily.
Additionally, you can create VDI files with a fixed size, which remains constant, or dynamically allocated formats that expand as required.
What Are IMG Files?
IMG files are the adaptable digital storage space that mirrors the contents of physical disks like CDs or DVDs. Similar toISO files, IMG files store completedisk images, making them ideal for sharing and distribution.
These files are useful for sharing video games, applications, or even entire operating systems. Moreover, you may directly mount IMG files to access their content without using physical media. Beyond gaming, IMG files are used for several operations like software deployment, system backups, and disk cloning.
The first step is ensuring you haveOracle VirtualBoxinstalled on your system. This cross-platform virtualization software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux users.
Download:VirtualBoxfor Windows, macOS, and Linux (Free)
If this is your first time using VirtualBox, you should also consider our guide onhow to use VirtualBox.
How to Convert IMG to VDI Format
Conversion of IMG to VDI format is a simple process. The following subsections will provide the instructions for converting IMG to VDI format on Linux and Windows.
How to Convert IMG to VDI Format on Linux
After installing VirtualBox, navigate to the directory where the IMG file exists. Then, convert the IMG file to VDI format with:
Replace the “input.img” with your IMG file name and “output.vdi” with the desired VDI file name:
This command creates a dynamic image with the specified size and performs the conversion. It might take some time, according to the size of the image file.
How to Convert IMG to VDI Format on Windows
Firstly, open theCommand Promptas an administrator and navigate to the Oracle VirtualBox installation folder:
Now, convert your IMG file to a VDI file following the same syntax:
Import VDI File to VirtualBox
Now, you are all ready to import the converted IMG file into Oracle VirtualBox.
Once complete, you’re able to boot your newly created virtual machine using your VDI.
IMG to VDI Conversion Is Effortless Using VirtualBox
Converting IMG files to VDI format using Oracle VirtualBox is a valuable skill for efficient virtualization. This operation enables you to use IMG files smoothly within VirtualBox and expands your virtual environment’s capabilities.
The best part of converting and using VDI files is that you’re able to take them anywhere and use them with any VirtualBox installation. They’re a handy way to back up your virtual machines and an easy way to transfer them between machines when required.
