WARNING: This guide was exclusively tested with UTM. Attempting to use it on a real metal computer could potentially cause system damage, especially if you lack the necessary computer knowledge. The creator of this guide is not responsible for any damage resulting from reckless use. If damage occurs, you will be solely responsible for purchasing a new computer. If you damage your system, the most affordable Macbook as of December 2024 is the MacBook Air M3, priced at $1099. Even the most economical option is quite expensive, so it’s advisable to consider using UTM if you don’t have more than $1000.
To set up the virtual machine, you’ll require:
- A Mac M1, M2, M3, M4 (PRO and ULTRA models are also supported).
- UTM: Download it from https://mac.getutm.app/.
- Ubuntu Server ARM: Download it from https://ubuntu.com/download/server/arm.
- Approximately 20GB of free space is recommended.
Note: If you have a recovery macOS (TM) USB, you can use Ubuntu on bare metal.
Thanks to KSK ROYAL for the incredible video in the tutorial! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
Instructions:
- Download either Ubuntu 24.04.1 LTS or 24.10 (the latter will be the latest version).
- Download UTM from the website’s “Download” button. After doenlaod open the UTM.dmg file and a window will pop up
- Install UTM by dragging the UTM app into the Applications folder , then launch the app
- Visit Ksk Royal’s video linked here (he’s credited in this tutorial and acknowledged in the GitHub repository): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrNS3brSnmA&t=355s
- Carefully follow his instructions. You can skip the UTM Install part, but incude the VM setup and Ubuntu install.
- Continue following his instructions, and soon, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful Ubuntu desktop.
- Enjoy your new setup! You can use it for testing, leisure, or even server hosting (since this is Ubuntu Server).