Types of network adapters in VirtualBox

In VirtualBox there’s multiple types of network adapters that can be used to configure virtual machines for different networking needs. Down below will give you a brief overview of each type.

NAT (network address translation)

The VM is placed behind a VirtualBox-managed router. This allows the VM to access the external network via the networks host’s IP, but the VM itself remains invisible to the outside. Its most suitable for simple internet access with minimal configuration

NAT network

This is like NAT, but it allows multiple VM’s to communicate with each other in the same NAT network all while sharing the host’s internet connection. Its commonly used when you want to simulate a small, isolated network of VM’s that can also access the internet.

Bridged adapter

This VM is connected directly to the physical network as if it is a separate device, it also receives its own IP address from the same network as the host. This is ideal for when you need the VM to be fully accessible to the other devices on the network.

Internal network

This creates a completely isolated network for the sole purpose of communication between VM’s. the VM’s on the same internal network can see each other but there is no external access or host communication unless it is bridged via other configurations.

Host-only adapter

VM’s are connected to the host-only network which allows communication between the host and VM’s but without the external network access. This is often used for testing environments in where internet access is not needed.

Generic driver

This can be used with more specialised networking setups like user-mode networking and UDP tunnels. This is primarily used for more advanced users who need to customise their networking beyond what other modes can provide.