If you run a web server, email server, or any server why do you want it in a graphical window on your desktop? I used to have my web/email/ect… server in a VirtualBox window that I would hide using alltray. Then I discovered the VirtualBox headless option. It launches the virtual machine entirely daemonized in the background. With ssh configured I use a gnome-terminal to gain access to the machine. This way the gnome-terminal is fully integrated into my desktop and does not appear out of place what so ever. Simply setup rsa keys to automate the login process; also disable password authentication to really create a secure server environment! One observation is how the options are called. Start a regular virtual machine with: VBoxManage -startvm webserver Start a headless virtual machine using: VBoxHeadless startvm webserver Notice the lack of the dash. It tis what it tis.