Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Yes, you can install VMware ESXi inside an Oracle VirtualBox virtual machine when the physical host is x86 and exposes VT-x or AMD-V to VirtualBox. This is a nested-virtualization lab for learning, demonstrations, training, configuration experiments, and testing—not a production deployment. Broadcom says ESXi nested inside a third-party hypervisor such as VirtualBox is outside its production support obligations, and licensing may require separate verification.
The reliable setup is to create a 64-bit VM, enable VirtualBox’s Enable Nested VT-x/AMD-V option (or the equivalent VBoxManage command), attach a licensed ESXi installer ISO, and select a network mode that matches your lab.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Can you install VMware ESXi in a VirtualBox VM?
Yes. VirtualBox can pass the host CPU’s hardware-virtualization functions into a guest, allowing an ESXi installer to run as a nested hypervisor. The physical computer must support the required virtualization extensions, those extensions must be enabled in firmware, and VirtualBox must be configured to expose them to the ESXi VM.
This arrangement adds two virtualization layers: your operating system runs VirtualBox, and VirtualBox runs ESXi, which can then run additional virtual machines. It is useful when you need a portable VMware lab but do not have a spare server or a VMware hypervisor available.
Popular on Amazon
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
It is not equivalent to installing ESXi directly on hardware. Broadcom’s support article, updated April 9, 2026, states that ESXi nested in a virtual machine on a third-party hypervisor is not supported in production. VirtualBox therefore belongs in the experimental and educational category, even when the installation succeeds.
Is ESXi on VirtualBox supported for production?
No. Broadcom explicitly says it does not support ESXi as a guest operating system nested within a virtual machine in production environments. The statement also covers “any other third-party hypervisor solution,” which includes VirtualBox.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Broadcom does encourage nesting for legitimate non-production work. Its examples include learning VMware products, experimenting with configurations, conducting training, showing demonstrations, and testing configurations. Those uses are appropriate for a VirtualBox lab provided you understand that support, performance, and compatibility are not guaranteed.
Licensing is a separate issue from technical installation. Broadcom warns that a nested ESXi deployment may require additional licenses. Confirm the entitlement for your ESXi edition and intended use before creating a lab that will be shared, used for training, or connected to other systems.
What do you need before starting?
An x86 host with virtualization enabled
Use a physical x86 computer with Intel VT-x or AMD-V available to VirtualBox. Oracle describes nested virtualization as a pass-through of hardware-virtualization functions from the host to the guest. If a feature does not exist on the host CPU, VirtualBox cannot expose it to ESXi.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check the computer’s firmware settings before troubleshooting the VM. The relevant control may be named Intel Virtualization Technology, VT-x, SVM, AMD-V, or a similar term. The exact label and location depend on the system manufacturer.
A compatible host operating system and VirtualBox build
Install a current VirtualBox release appropriate for the host operating system. Oracle’s VirtualBox 7.2 installation documentation lists packages for Windows x86_64, Intel-based macOS, Apple-silicon macOS, and Linux. The package can install on an ARM computer, but that does not make an x86 ESXi guest possible there.
An ESXi installer image and valid licensing
Obtain the ESXi installer ISO through the VMware/Broadcom channel appropriate to your license or evaluation. Keep the exact ESXi build number with your lab notes. The fact that an ISO boots does not establish that the combination is supported or licensed for production.
Enough resources for the lab you intend to build
Create a 64-bit VM and assign CPU cores, memory, and virtual-disk capacity according to the workloads you plan to test. The authoritative guidance for this configuration does not prescribe a universal minimum for ESXi running on VirtualBox. Leave resources for the host operating system and VirtualBox itself; allocating every available core or byte of memory can make the outer host unstable.
How does nested virtualization work in VirtualBox?
Normally, a guest operating system sees a virtual CPU rather than the physical processor’s virtualization instructions. With nested virtualization enabled, VirtualBox exposes the host’s VT-x or AMD-V functions to the guest. ESXi can then initialize its own hypervisor layer inside that guest.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteAlso popular on Amazon
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The pass-through does not create missing hardware features, and it does not remove the overhead of running a hypervisor inside another hypervisor. It also does not change Broadcom’s support policy. The setting is a technical prerequisite, not a production certification.
How do you install VMware ESXi in VirtualBox?
- Install VirtualBox. Use Oracle’s installation process for your host operating system. Reboot if the installer or operating system requests it, then open VirtualBox Manager.
- Create the ESXi VM. Select New, give the machine a clear name such as ESXi-Lab, choose a 64-bit VMware-compatible guest type when offered, and assign the CPU, memory, and virtual-disk resources your lab requires. Do not power on the VM yet.
- Enable nested hardware virtualization in the interface. With the VM powered off, open Settings → System → Processor and select Enable Nested VT-x/AMD-V. If the option is unavailable, stop and verify that the physical host is x86, firmware virtualization is enabled, and no other hypervisor is preventing VirtualBox from using the feature.
- Enable it from the command line when you need a repeatable build. Close the VM and run
VBoxManage modifyvm "ESXi-Lab" --nested-hw-virt=on. Oracle documents--nested-hw-virt=on|offas the switch that makes hardware-virtualization features available to the VM. Use the exact VM name, or replace it with the name shown by VirtualBox. - Attach the ESXi ISO. Open Settings → Storage, select the virtual optical drive, and choose the licensed ESXi installer image. Confirm that the VM’s boot order allows the optical drive to start before the empty virtual disk.
- Boot the installer. Start the VM and wait for the ESXi installer to load. Proceed through the keyboard, license, and installation prompts. When asked for an installation target, choose the VM’s virtual disk, not the physical host disk.
- Complete the first boot. Remove or detach the ISO after installation so the VM boots from its virtual disk. Record the ESXi version, VirtualBox version, VM resource allocation, and host operating system; these details are essential when reproducing a lab or diagnosing a change.
- Select the network mode deliberately. Configure the adapter before or after installation based on whether ESXi needs outbound internet access, visibility on the physical LAN, or isolation from other networks. The choices are explained below.
- Use the finished system as a lab. Test ESXi configuration, create demonstration workloads, or practice administration. Do not present the VirtualBox-hosted instance as a supported production platform.
What should you do if the installer says hardware virtualization is unavailable?
Power off the VM and verify both layers of the configuration. First confirm that VT-x or AMD-V is enabled in the physical computer’s firmware. Then return to Settings → System → Processor and confirm Enable Nested VT-x/AMD-V is selected, or run the documented VBoxManage command. Oracle’s limitation is decisive: a hardware-virtualization feature absent from the host cannot be passed into the guest.
Which VirtualBox network mode should you choose for an ESXi lab?
There is no single best mode. Choose according to who must reach the ESXi management interface and whether the lab should be isolated.
| VirtualBox mode | Use it when | Reachability trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| NAT | The ESXi VM mainly needs outbound connectivity through the host. | Convenient for downloads and updates initiated by the VM, but other physical machines normally cannot initiate connections directly to the ESXi VM without additional forwarding. |
| Bridged networking | The ESXi VM must appear on the same physical LAN as the host. | Other computers on the LAN can reach the VM, subject to the LAN’s addressing and security controls. Oracle identifies bridged mode as the option that permits this physical-network access. |
| Host-only networking | You want an isolated practice network between the host and lab VMs. | Useful for contained exercises, but it does not provide ordinary access to the physical LAN or the internet unless you add and configure another adapter. |
You can attach more than one virtual adapter when a lab needs separate management and test networks, but keep the design simple until the ESXi installation itself is stable. A bridged adapter is the usual choice when a second physical computer must open the ESXi management interface; NAT or host-only is safer when the lab should remain private.
How do you troubleshoot common ESXi-on-VirtualBox failures?
The installer reports that hardware virtualization is unavailable
- Confirm the physical CPU is x86 and supports Intel VT-x or AMD-V.
- Enable the processor’s virtualization extension in firmware.
- Power off the VM and enable Settings → System → Processor → Enable Nested VT-x/AMD-V.
- Check the command-line state with
VBoxManage modifyvm "ESXi-Lab" --nested-hw-virt=onif you manage the VM by script. - Do not expect VirtualBox to expose a feature the host CPU does not provide.
The host is an ARM computer
Do not try to force an x86 ESXi guest onto an ARM host in VirtualBox. Oracle states that VirtualBox VMs on ARM hosts must use ARM guest operating systems and that Nested VT-x/AMD-V is unavailable for ARM guests. Use an x86 host for this ESXi lab.
Also popular on Amazon
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
The ESXi VM boots, but another computer cannot reach it
Review the adapter mode first. NAT and host-only networking have deliberate reachability limits. Change the adapter to bridged networking when the ESXi VM must be reachable from other physical machines, then verify that the selected physical interface is connected to the intended LAN and that the LAN permits the traffic.
The installation works, but behavior changes after an update
Treat each VirtualBox and ESXi build combination as a lab experiment. Broadcom’s published version matrix covers VMware-hosted nesting, not VirtualBox compatibility. Record both build numbers, the host operating system, CPU architecture, nested-virtualization state, and network mode before changing one variable at a time.
You need support or are unsure about licensing
Separate technical symptoms from entitlement questions. Broadcom’s policy excludes nested ESXi on third-party hypervisors from production support, and the company warns that nested deployments may need additional licenses. Contact the appropriate VMware/Broadcom licensing or support channel for your edition and use case rather than assuming that a successful boot grants production rights.
What ESXi version combinations are documented?
Broadcom publishes a known-working nesting matrix for VMware products. Those pairings are useful context when choosing a lab version, but they do not certify ESXi running inside VirtualBox.
| ESXi guest version | Minimum ESXi outer version | Minimum Workstation version | Minimum Fusion version |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESXi 6.0 | 5.5 or later | 12.0 or later | 6.0 or later |
| ESXi 6.5 or 6.7 | 6.0 or later | 14.0 or later | 10.0 or later |
| ESXi 7.0 | 6.7 or later | 15.5 or later | 11.5 or later |
| ESXi 8.0 | 7.0 or later | 16.0 or later | 12.0 or later |
| ESX 9.0 | Listed separately by Broadcom; the cited guidance does not state the pairing values here. | ||
Use the table as a reference for VMware-hosted nesting only. For VirtualBox, capture the exact versions you used and validate the features your own lab requires instead of treating the VMware matrix as a compatibility guarantee.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What is this VirtualBox ESXi lab suitable for?
- Learning: Practice ESXi navigation, virtual-switch concepts, storage workflows, and routine administration without dedicated server hardware.
- Product experimentation: Test configuration ideas in a disposable environment before deciding whether they belong on supported infrastructure.
- Training and demonstrations: Show an ESXi interface or workflow to a class, teammate, or client while keeping the environment portable.
- Configuration testing: Reproduce a narrowly scoped scenario and document the exact host, VirtualBox, ESXi, and network settings.
It is a poor fit for workloads that require predictable latency, high availability, vendor support, or a production service-level agreement. Nested scheduling adds another layer of contention, and no independent performance benchmark for ESXi inside VirtualBox is published in the cited authoritative material.
Should you use VirtualBox or a VMware hypervisor for the outer layer?
Choose the outer hypervisor according to support requirements rather than assuming that every successful nested installation is equivalent.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
| Decision axis | VirtualBox as the outer layer | VMware outer layer |
|---|---|---|
| Support status | ESXi nested on a third-party hypervisor is outside Broadcom’s production support position. | Broadcom publishes nesting guidance and version pairings for VMware products, but you still need to follow the applicable product and license terms. |
| Virtualization exposure | Requires the host’s VT-x/AMD-V functions to be passed through with the nested setting. | Uses VMware’s own documented nesting controls for the listed products. |
| Host architecture | An x86 host is required for an x86 ESXi guest; ARM-host limitations remain. | Check the architecture and guest support for the specific VMware product and host. |
| Networking | NAT, bridged, and host-only modes provide distinct lab reachability choices. | Use the networking model documented for the selected VMware product and lab. |
| Version coverage | No VirtualBox compatibility guarantee is established by Broadcom’s VMware matrix. | The published matrix gives minimum VMware outer versions for several ESXi releases. |
| Licensing | Nested ESXi may require additional licenses; verify before use. | Verify the licenses for both the outer VMware product and nested ESXi. |
For a personal learning environment, VirtualBox can be practical if you already have an x86 computer and accept the unsupported-production boundary. For a supported deployment, use physical ESXi or an officially documented VMware nesting arrangement instead of relying on a VirtualBox result.
How can you keep the lab reproducible and safe?
- Write down the host CPU model, architecture, firmware virtualization state, operating system, VirtualBox build, ESXi build, VM resource allocation, and network mode.
- Keep the ESXi ISO and license information associated with the version that produced the working installation.
- Use a clearly labeled VM name and separate lab networks from business or home-critical systems.
- Take a VirtualBox snapshot only when you understand the storage cost and the effect of reverting a running hypervisor.
- When a test fails, change one variable at a time and record the result.
These habits do not convert the configuration into a supported production platform, but they make failures easier to reproduce and discard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an x86 ESXi guest on an Apple-silicon Mac with VirtualBox?
No. Apple-silicon Macs use ARM processors, and Oracle’s ARM-host model requires ARM guest operating systems; Nested VT-x/AMD-V is not available for ARM guests. Use an x86 computer for this particular ESXi exercise.
Does enabling Nested VT-x/AMD-V make the ESXi VM officially supported?
No. The switch only passes the host’s hardware-virtualization functions into the guest. Broadcom’s production-support position for ESXi nested on third-party hypervisors is unchanged.
Is there one universal CPU or memory minimum for ESXi in VirtualBox?
The cited authoritative guidance does not define a universal minimum for this nested arrangement. Size the VM for the workloads you intend to run while reserving enough resources for the host and VirtualBox.
Can I move a VirtualBox ESXi lab directly onto a production server?
Do not assume portability. Hardware presentation, networking, storage, licensing, and support conditions change when the outer layer changes; rebuild or validate the target environment under its own documented requirements.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
