Want to run Linux on your Windows 11 machine without a dual boot setup? Thanks to the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), you can easily do this. By enabling WSL, you can install a full-fledged Linux distribution like Ubuntu directly on Windows 11, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds seamlessly. With just a few steps, you’ll be switching between Windows and Linux like a pro.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Use Linux in Windows 11
By following these steps, you’ll get a Linux environment set up directly within your Windows 11 system.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as an Administrator
Right-click the Start button and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)”.
Opening it as an admin is crucial because you’ll need elevated permissions to enable WSL. If you see a User Account Control (UAC) prompt, click “Yes”.
Step 2: Enable WSL
Type wsl --install and press Enter.
This command will download and install the Windows Subsystem for Linux components, including a default distribution like Ubuntu. Make sure your computer is connected to the internet because it will fetch files from the Microsoft Store.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
After the installation process completes, reboot your system.
Restarting is essential to apply the changes and finalize the installation of WSL. Once your computer reboots, you’ll be ready to dive into the Linux world.
Step 4: Set Up a Linux Distribution
When your system restarts, the Ubuntu installation will continue. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up.
You’ll be prompted to create a username and password for your Linux environment. This will be separate from your Windows credentials, so make sure you remember them.
Step 5: Launch Linux
After setup, you can launch your Linux environment by typing wsl in the Windows Terminal or clicking the Ubuntu app from the Start menu.
This will open a Linux terminal window where you can run Linux commands, install software, and do everything you would on a native Linux system.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have a fully functional Linux environment inside Windows 11. You can switch between Windows and Linux tools effortlessly.
Tips: How to Use Linux in Windows 11
- Use Package Managers: Make sure to use package managers like
aptto install software easily on your Linux environment. - Update Regularly: Keep your Linux distribution updated by running
sudo apt updateandsudo apt upgraderegularly. - Leverage File System Access: You can access your Windows files from Linux using the
/mnt/cdirectory. - Use Linux commands: Familiarize yourself with basic Linux commands like
ls,cd, andmkdir. - Install Additional Distributions: If Ubuntu isn’t your cup of tea, you can install other distributions via the Microsoft Store.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Use Linux in Windows 11
Can I run graphical Linux applications on Windows 11?
Yes, with WSLg (Windows Subsystem for Linux GUI), you can run graphical Linux applications natively in Windows 11.
Do I need to partition my hard drive for WSL?
No, WSL does not require partitioning your hard drive. It runs within the Windows file system.
Is WSL secure?
WSL is sandboxed and isolated from the main Windows system, making it secure for most use cases.
Can I use WSL for software development?
Absolutely! WSL is excellent for development tasks, especially web development, as it offers a native Linux environment.
How do I uninstall WSL?
You can uninstall WSL by running wsl --uninstall in an elevated PowerShell window. Additionally, you can uninstall the Linux distribution from the Control Panel.
Summary
- Open PowerShell as an Administrator.
- Enable WSL with
wsl --install. - Restart your computer.
- Set up a Linux distribution.
- Launch Linux.
Conclusion
Using Linux in Windows 11 is a fantastic way to enjoy the flexibility of a Linux environment without leaving the comfort of Windows. Whether you’re a developer needing Linux tools or a curious user wanting to explore, WSL makes it simple and hassle-free.
By following the steps provided, you’ll have Ubuntu up and running alongside Windows in no time. The ability to switch between systems seamlessly offers a unique advantage, particularly for those who need both environments for their work or hobbies.
Don’t stop here! Dive deeper into Linux commands, explore different distributions, and experiment with various Linux applications. You’ll find that the combination of Windows and Linux can open up new possibilities for productivity and entertainment. So why wait? Start exploring Linux on your Windows 11 machine today!
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.