These instructions are for removing VirtualBox Guest Additions from Ubuntu 12.04 running under VirtualBox version 4.1.12.

They may be the same or similar for other version combinations and other Linux distros, but no guarantee is made.

Assumes you know how to open a terminal. Instructions for opening a terminal can be found here.

Uninstalling VirtualBox Guest Additions

1) Open a terminal (Ctrl+Alt+T) and enter the following commands:

cd /media
cd VBOXADDITIONS_4.1.12_77218
sudo sh VBoxLinuxAdditions.run uninstall

Note: VBOXADDITONS_4.1.12_77218 depends on which version of VirtualBox you are running. The way I enter it is (1) type cd VB, then (2) press the Tab key to auto-complete the name.

You can also find the name of the directory by entering the command ls into the terminal:

After entering your password, the VirtualBox Guest Additions will be uninstalled:

Note: Linux does not echo back your password. When you type your password, it looks like nothing is happening on screen. This is normal.

Ejecting the VirtualBox Guest Additions CD

Having uninstalled the VirtualBox Guest Additions, there is not much point in keeping the Guest Additions media installed.

2) Click on the Home Folder icon on the Unity Launcher:

3) Click on the Eject icon next to the Guest Additions: