Enabling Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) on Windows 10 allows you to run a Linux distribution alongside your Windows OS. In simple terms, you can have the best of both worlds on one machine. To enable WSL, you need to tweak some settings and install a Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store. Let’s break it down step by step.
How to Enable WSL in Windows 10
First, we need to enable WSL from the Windows Features settings. Then, we will install a Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store. These steps will allow you to run Linux commands directly from your Windows machine.
Step 1: Open Windows Features
Open the Start Menu, search for “Windows Features,” and select “Turn Windows features on or off.”
In the Windows Features dialog box, you will find a list of options that you can enable or disable. This is where you’ll find the setting needed to enable WSL.
Step 2: Enable WSL
In the Windows Features dialog box, scroll down and check the box next to “Windows Subsystem for Linux.” Click OK.
Enabling this feature will install the necessary files to run Linux on your Windows machine. It might take a few minutes to complete.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
After enabling WSL, you will be prompted to restart your computer. Click “Restart now.”
This restart allows Windows to apply the changes and set up the environment needed for WSL.
Step 4: Open Microsoft Store
After your computer restarts, open the Microsoft Store from the Start Menu.
The Microsoft Store is where you can download and install various Linux distributions.
Step 5: Search for Linux Distribution
In the Microsoft Store, search for a Linux distribution like Ubuntu, Debian, or Kali Linux.
There are several distributions available, so choose one that suits your needs.
Step 6: Install the Linux Distribution
Click on the Linux distribution, then click “Get” to start the installation.
The Microsoft Store will download and install the Linux distribution, which might take a few minutes.
Step 7: Launch the Linux Distribution
Once installed, click “Launch” to start the Linux distribution.
The first time you launch it, you will need to set up a new user account and password for the Linux environment.
After completing these steps, you will have WSL enabled on your Windows 10 machine. You can now run Linux commands directly from your Windows environment.
Tips for Enabling WSL in Windows 10
- Make sure your Windows 10 is updated to the latest version for better compatibility.
- You can enable WSL 2 for improved performance and full system call compatibility.
- Use the built-in Windows Terminal for a better command-line experience.
- You can run multiple Linux distributions simultaneously.
- Regularly update your Linux distribution through the package manager to keep it secure and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WSL?
WSL stands for Windows Subsystem for Linux. It allows you to run a native Linux distribution alongside Windows.
Can I use any Linux distribution with WSL?
Not all, but several popular distributions are available in the Microsoft Store, like Ubuntu, Debian, and Kali Linux.
Is WSL free to use?
Yes, WSL and the Linux distributions available in the Microsoft Store are free to use.
Can I run graphical Linux applications with WSL?
With WSL 2 and additional configuration, you can run graphical Linux applications.
Do I need to know Linux commands to use WSL?
Basic knowledge of Linux commands will be helpful, but you can learn as you go.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Open the Start Menu, search for “Windows Features,” and select “Turn Windows features on or off.”
- Scroll down and check the box next to “Windows Subsystem for Linux.” Click OK.
- Restart your computer.
- Open the Microsoft Store from the Start Menu.
- Search for a Linux distribution like Ubuntu or Debian.
- Click on the distribution, then click “Get” to install it.
- Click “Launch” to start the Linux distribution.
Conclusion
Enabling WSL on Windows 10 is like opening a door to a new world of possibilities. Whether you’re a developer needing to test code in a Linux environment or a curious tech enthusiast wanting to explore, WSL makes it simple. Once enabled, you can switch between Windows and Linux with ease, enjoying the unique benefits of each OS.
If you’re looking to delve deeper, consider exploring advanced WSL features like running graphical Linux apps or integrating WSL with Docker. The world of Linux is vast, and having access to it from your Windows machine is a game-changer.
So, go ahead and give it a try. You’ll soon see why so many people are excited about WSL on Windows 10!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.