Virtualization allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single computer. Although these virtual machines share the resources of the physical computer (host), you still need a VirtualBox USB dongle system to access a USB security key before you can run certain programs.
While building a VirtualBox USB passthrough is possible, users frequently complain that the VirtualBox USB connectivity is unstable. This connection method only allows users to access security dongles attached to the physical computer.
In this article, we'll explain how you can create a reliable VirtualBox USB dongle connection . We'll also explore all the possible solutions you can try when sharing a dongle through VirtualBox.
The software uses a port redirection technology that goes over the TCP/IP network. This technology also allows users to forward USB security dongles to any environment, even when the key is not connected to the physical computer. As a result, Donglify creates a VirtualBox USB license dongle connection that users can rely on anytime.
For more information on how to use Donglify to share USB dongles to VirtualBox VMs, please watch this guide:
Before using the Donglify software to connect a VirtualBox to USB dongles, here are three key conditions to consider:
Internet Connection: It doesn't matter if all your devices are connected to the same LAN. Your machines must be connected to the internet and USB dongles before you can use the USB license in the virtual environment.
Windows and Mac Cross-connectivity: Donglify is a flexible software that works on Windows and Mac operating systems. This means you can cross-connect different operating systems when you want. To do so, you'll need to install the latest version of the software if you want to share dongle keys to a Mac device.
Niche Use Is a Must: The dongle software was created exclusively to share USB dongles. As a result, it's not designed to work with any other USB device type.
Many users believe it is easy to use USB devices in virtual settings. That's far from the truth. To perform this action, users must first navigate several software layers. Then, they'll interact with the drivers that control the hardware resources they need to get the host and guest operating systems to work together.
There are two ways to handle this complex issue.
"On-The-Fly" option
The first is to apply an "On-The-Fly" mechanism to capture a USB device in a VirtualBox. Use the icon at the bottom of the GUI window to select the USB device. The "✓" next to each name in the list means the device has been captured.
Using a USB filter
The second method involves using a USB filter. This method is more effective and reliable because it offers fast connectivity. For example, a running VM can immediately capture a dongle that is connected to the host operating system. USB filters work best when all devices have individual filters.
Note: If you use a Linux host like Ubuntu or Fedora, it's a bit difficult to use a VirtualBox USB dongle. After you log out or reboot the system, you won't be able to see the connected device list unless you're a member of "vboxusers" with a verified membership.
In summary, here's a short guide on how to capture a USB device using a filter.
You can always select a name and obtain the VendorID and ProductID. The method varies depending on the device you use.
• When on a Linux host device, use the command "lsusb" to access the VendorID and ProductID.
• On a Mac OS, check system information to access the VendorID and ProductID.
• For Windows, visit the device manager to obtain the same information.
If you already have a VirtualBox extension installed on your device, you can try a different method when using the filter to capture a USB device. Here's how:
