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Install linux mint in 5 minutes

Published: December 1, 2025 (Updated: Dec 1, 2025)

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Quick Guide: Installing Linux Mint 18 Step-by-Step on VMware Workstation

Welcome to Darren’s Tech Tutorials!

Hey tech fans! Darren here, and today we’re diving into the fantastic world of virtual machines to get a clean, functional installation of Linux Mint 18 running on VMware Workstation.

Installing an operating system inside a Virtual Machine (VM) is the perfect way to test out new features, learn Linux fundamentals, or simply have a safe, isolated sandbox away from your primary OS.

This guide translates the video tutorial into clear, actionable steps, ensuring you get from zero to a functioning Linux Mint desktop fast.

Step 1: Download the Linux Mint ISO File

Before we configure our virtual machine, we need the installation file.

  1. Navigate to the Downloads Page: Go to the official Linux Mint download page: https://linuxmint.com/download.php
  2. Select Your Version: For this tutorial, we are using the Mate 64-bit version of Linux Mint 18.
  3. Choose a Mirror: Scroll down and select a mirror server closest to your physical location (for faster download speeds).
  4. Start the Download: Click the selected mirror to begin downloading the .iso file. This file is the virtual disc we will “insert” into our VM.

Wait for the download to complete before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Setting Up the Virtual Machine in VMware Workstation

With the ISO downloaded, it’s time to set up the environment for Linux Mint.

  1. Create a New VM: Open VMware Workstation, go to File > New Virtual Machine.
  2. Choose Configuration: Select the default Typical configuration and click Next.
  3. Select the Installation File: Choose the third option: Installer disc image file (iso). Browse to your Downloads folder and select the Linux Mint ISO file you just downloaded. Click Open, then Next.
  4. Select Operating System:
    • Guest Operating System: Select Linux.
    • Version: Select Debian 8 64-bit (This is a compatible base selection for Linux Mint). Click Next.
  5. Name the VM: Give your virtual machine a descriptive name (e.g., Linux Mint Test Machine). Click Next.
  6. Specify Disk Capacity: We’ll leave the recommended size for now (e.g., 20 GB). Click Next.

Customize the Hardware

Before clicking Finish, it’s crucial to customize the hardware to ensure smooth performance.

  1. Click Customize Hardware
  2. Memory (RAM): Increase the memory to at least 2 GB (2048 MB).
  3. Processors: Increase the number of processors to 2.
  4. Confirm: Click Close, then click Finish to create the virtual machine configuration.

Step 3: Running the Linux Mint Installation Wizard

Now we power on the VM and start the installation process proper.

  1. Power On: Select the new VM in VMware and click Power on this virtual machine.
  2. Initial Boot: The VM will automatically boot up from the ISO image, bringing you to the Linux Mint live desktop environment.
  3. Start Installer: On the desktop, double-click the icon labeled Install Linux Mint to launch the setup wizard.
  4. Language Selection: Select your preferred language (e.g., English) and click Continue.
  5. Third-Party Software (Crucial Choice):
    • If this is a quick test machine: You can leave the box unchecked.
    • If you plan to use this regularly: Check the box to “Install third-party software for graphics and Wi-Fi hardware, Flash, MP3, and other media.” This gives you better media compatibility. Click Continue.
  6. Installation Type (Erase Disk): Since we are inside a self-contained virtual disk, select Erase disk and install Linux Mint. This only affects the virtual disk we created, not your host machine’s hard drive. Click Install Now, and then Continue to confirm the write operations.
  7. Time Zone: Click your location on the map (e.g., Dublin, Ireland) and click Continue.
  8. Keyboard Layout: Confirm your desired keyboard layout and click Continue.
  9. User Account Setup:
    • Enter your name.
    • Choose a computer name.
    • Set a username and password.
    • Security Note: If this is your main OS, choose a strong password! For a test machine, a weak password might suffice, but good habits are always recommended.
  10. Wait for Installation: The installation will now begin copying files. This step may take several minutes.

Step 4: Finalizing the Install and First Boot

Once the installation is complete, you need to perform one critical step before logging in.

  1. Restart Notification: When finished, you will see a message: “Installation is finished.” Click the button Restart Now.
  2. Remove the ISO (Crucial Step): As the VM restarts, you will get a warning to “Remove the installation medium, then press ENTER.” If you skip this, the VM will likely boot back into the installer!
    • Action: Go up to the VMware menu for your VM, navigate to Settings > CD/DVD (SATA). Change the setting from “Use ISO image file” to “Use physical drive” or simply uncheck the “Connected” box to disconnect the virtual disk.
  3. Continue Boot: Click OK in the settings window, and then press ENTER in the virtual machine console.
  4. Login: The system will boot into the newly installed Linux Mint OS. Enter the password you created in Step 3.

Congratulations! You are now successfully logged into your very own Linux Mint desktop environment running inside VMware Workstation. You have the full power of a Linux desktop ready for you to explore, test, and enjoy.

Ready to Explore Linux Mint!

You have successfully navigated a complete installation of Linux Mint 18! Whether you’re a Linux newbie or an experienced user setting up a new virtual sandbox, this setup gives you an ideal testing ground.

If you ran into any snags during this process, please drop a comment below—I’m always happy to help troubleshoot!

Don’t forget to like this post and subscribe to Darren’s Tech Tutorials for more clear, step-by-step guides! Happy virtualizing!