Backup/Copy Virtualbox VM With Snapshots (to another computer)

Apr 11, 2019
Fail to open virtual machine: a differencing image of snapshot could not be found

You could backup/copy the entire virtualbox VM which consist of the following files and folder

  • Name.vbox
  • Name.vbox-prev
  • Name.vbox-disk001.vdi
  • Logs
  • Snapshots

To restore the backup, click VirtualBox -> Machine -> Add and select the .vbox file.

If you have snapshots in your VM, you will bump into the following error:

Fail to open virtual machine: a differencing image of snapshot could not be found

To solve this issue, click File -> Virtual Media Manager -> Add.

  • Select [Name].vbox-disk001.vdi first.
  • Select the Snapshots in sequence, oldest first.

After add Virtual Hard disk file using Virtual Media Manager, perform Machine -> Add and select the .vbox file again.

NOTE: Another option might be using File -> Export Appliances. I didn't try this though, but I believe this method will remove all snapshots.

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✨ By Desmond Lua

A dream boy who enjoys making apps, travelling and making youtube videos. Follow me on @d_luaz

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