Linux on Apple Silicon
Run Linux ARM virtual machines on Apple Silicon Macs
Kyvenza is a Mac-first VM manager for Apple Silicon developers who need a fast path from "fresh Mac" to a working Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora ARM environment.
Built for Apple Silicon developers
Linux server parity on macOS
Match production Linux ARM environments locally for backend, container, or scripting work without leaving your Mac.
Reproducible dev sandboxes
Spin up disposable Ubuntu ARM VMs for risky installs, package experiments, or per-project toolchains.
Teach and learn Linux safely
Students and instructors get a clean Linux environment without dual-boot or bare-metal hassle.
Kyvenza vs other Apple Silicon VM options
Several great tools target Apple Silicon. Kyvenza is positioned for developers who want ARM Linux specifically and prefer a Mac-native UI over assembling QEMU flags.
| Feature | Kyvenza | Other tools |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use case | ARM Linux VMs | General-purpose virtualization |
| Backend | Apple Virtualization framework (native) | QEMU or proprietary hypervisors |
| Setup | Pre-filled defaults for ARM Linux | More configuration knobs to learn |
| Pricing | Free trial + one-time Pro license | Free, subscription, or hybrid |
| Windows 11 ARM | Not supported today | Varies by tool |
What Kyvenza supports today
A short, honest list — so you know what to expect before you download.
Supported today
- Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5)
- Ubuntu ARM (LTS releases)
- Debian ARM
- Fedora ARM
- macOS 13 Ventura or later as host
- Native Apple Virtualization framework backend
Not supported yet
- Windows 11 on ARM — no shipping support today, no committed timeline
- x86 / Intel guest operating systems
- Nested virtualization
- GPU passthrough
We list what we cannot deliver today so you can plan accordingly.
How it works
Install Kyvenza
Download the signed .dmg for Apple Silicon and move Kyvenza into /Applications.
Create your first Linux ARM VM
Pick an Ubuntu ARM, Debian ARM, or Fedora ARM ISO. Disk, memory, and networking ship with sensible defaults.
Develop and snapshot
Use SSH or the built-in console for development; snapshot before risky changes and roll back when needed.
Frequently asked questions
Kyvenza runs on Apple Silicon Macs with M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 series chips. Intel Macs are not supported.
Get a real Linux ARM environment on your Mac
Download Kyvenza and have a working Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora ARM VM in minutes.
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