Linux Virtual Serial Port: A Guide to Setting Up and Using
In the world of computer programming and networking, serial ports have long been a crucial tool for communication between devices. However, with the rise of virtualization and the increasing popularity of Linux as an operating system, the need for virtual serial ports has also emerged. In this article, we will dive into the world of Linux virtual serial ports – what they are, how to set them up, and how to use them.
What is a Virtual Serial Port?
A virtual serial port, also known as a pseudo serial port, is a software interface that emulates a physical serial port. It allows communication between virtual machines and the host operating system, or between multiple virtual machines.
In a virtualized environment, there is no physical hardware to connect devices, so virtual serial ports act as a bridge. They provide a way for devices and applications to communicate as if they were connected to a physical serial port. This is especially useful for tasks that require serial communication, such as configuring routers, building embedded systems, and debugging hardware devices.
Setting Up a Virtual Serial Port in Linux
The process of setting up a virtual serial port in Linux may vary depending on the virtualization software you are using. In this article, we will focus on setting up a virtual serial port in VirtualBox, one of the most popular virtualization software.
Step 1: Install VirtualBox Extension Pack
To use virtual serial ports in VirtualBox, you will need to install the VirtualBox Extension Pack. This pack includes additional features and device support, including virtual serial ports. You can download the Extension Pack from the VirtualBox website and install it by double-clicking on the downloaded file.
Step 2: Create a Virtual Machine
Next, you will need to create a virtual machine in VirtualBox. Make sure to select Linux as the operating system and the appropriate version, depending on the distribution you are using.
Step 3: Configure the Settings
Once the virtual machine is created, go to the Settings menu and select the Serial Ports tab. Here, you can add a serial port by clicking on the “Add Port” button. You can also configure the settings for the serial port, such as the port number, serial port mode, and the path to the virtual serial port.
Step 4: Enable Serial Port
After configuring the settings, make sure to check the “Enable Serial Port” box. This will enable the virtual serial port for the selected virtual machine.
Using Virtual Serial Port in Linux
Now that you have set up a virtual serial port in VirtualBox, you can start using it in your Linux environment. Here are some common use cases for virtual serial ports in Linux.
Connecting to Physical Devices
One of the main benefits of virtual serial ports is the ability to connect to physical devices. For example, you can use a virtual serial port to connect to a router, switch, or other network devices for configuration and management.
Debugging Embedded Systems
If you are developing embedded systems, virtual serial ports can be a useful tool for debugging. You can use them to communicate with the device and monitor its output without the need for physical hardware.
Testing Serial Communication
Virtual serial ports can also be used to test serial communication between devices. You can create multiple virtual machines with virtual serial ports and use them to test the communication between different devices and applications.
In conclusion, virtual serial ports have become an essential tool for communication in virtualized environments, especially in Linux. With the right setup and configuration, you can use them for a variety of tasks, from connecting to physical devices to testing serial communication. So, if you haven’t already, give virtual serial ports a try and see how they can enhance your virtualization experience.
