1. Create a VM
Open SAB VM Lab, create a new VM, choose your macOS source, and give the VM a clear name.
SAB VM Lab
Quick Start
This is the short version if you want to get a new macOS VM running without reading the full guide first.
2. Install macOS in the Guest
Start the VM and complete the normal macOS install and first-boot setup inside the guest.
3. Confirm the Guest Reaches the Desktop
Before adding anything else, make sure the guest boots normally and reaches the desktop cleanly.
4. Open the Shared Automation Folder
Inside the guest, open the shared folder named VirtualMacAutomation.
5. Install VirtualMac Tools
Open VirtualMacTools.pkg inside the guest, finish the installer, approve the guest administrator prompt if asked, and keep the VM running for a few seconds.
6. Use Shared Files and Clipboard Sync
After the tools are installed, SAB VM Lab can support plain-text clipboard sync and other supported guest automation workflows.
7. Expand Storage Later If Needed
If you enlarge the VM disk later, use Disk Utility inside the guest to grow the APFS container if macOS does not claim the new space automatically.
8. Use a Disposable VM for Riskier Testing
If you plan to test installers, automation changes, or system-level guest behavior, use a snapshot or a throwaway VM first.
Need More Detail?
The full setup walkthrough and troubleshooting notes are available in the User Guide.