bikash | Jan. 8, 2025
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a game-changer for developers, tech enthusiasts, and Linux users who work in a Windows environment. It allows you to run a Linux operating system alongside your Windows installation, bringing the best of both worlds into one system. In this blog, we’ll explore what WSL is, its benefits, and how to install it.
WSL is a compatibility layer designed by Microsoft that lets users run a Linux environment natively on their Windows machine. It provides access to Linux command-line tools, scripts, and utilities without the overhead of setting up a virtual machine or dual-booting into a separate Linux installation.
Seamless Integration
WSL bridges the gap between Linux and Windows by allowing file sharing, access to Windows files from Linux, and vice versa.
Efficient Development
Developers can use Linux-specific tools like bash
, grep
, awk
, and development environments for languages like Python, Node.js, or Ruby directly on Windows.
Lightweight
Unlike virtual machines, WSL uses significantly fewer resources, making it a faster and more efficient solution.
Access to Linux Distributions
With WSL, you can install multiple Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, and Kali Linux, directly from the Microsoft Store.
Installing WSL is straightforward and takes just a few steps. Here’s how to get started:
Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:
Launch it as Administrator.
Install WSL:
Run the following command:
wsl --install
This command:
Reboot the System:
If prompted, restart your computer to complete the installation.
Set Up Linux:
After rebooting, the Linux terminal will open. Follow the prompts to set up a username and password.
If the quick installation method doesn’t suit you, follow these manual steps:
Enable Required Features:
Control Panel
> Programs
> Turn Windows features on or off
.Install a Linux Distribution:
wsl_update_x64.msi
).Run the Installer:
wsl_update_x64.msi
) and double-click to execute it.Enable Required Features:
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart
Set Default WSL Version:
wsl --set-default-version 2
After installation, you can start using WSL by following these steps:
Open the Linux Terminal:
Launch the Linux distribution from the Start menu or by typing wsl
in Command Prompt.
Run Linux Commands:
Use Linux commands like ls
, cd
, grep
, ssh
, and more, just as you would in a native Linux environment.
Access Windows Files from Linux:
Files stored on your Windows system are available in /mnt/c
within the Linux environment.
Install Development Tools:
Install programming languages, tools, and frameworks like Python, Node.js, or Docker directly within WSL.
List Installed Distributions:
wsl --list --verbose
Switch Between Versions:
To change a distribution to WSL 2:
wsl --set-version <DistroName> 2
Update WSL:
To ensure you’re running the latest version, update WSL with:
wsl --update
Windows Subsystem for Linux is a powerful tool that simplifies the process of running Linux on a Windows machine. Whether you're a developer, system administrator, or Linux enthusiast, WSL provides a convenient way to work with Linux tools without leaving the Windows ecosystem.
Now that you know how to install and use WSL, it's time to dive in and experience the seamless integration of Linux and Windows.
Let us know in the comments how WSL has helped you streamline your workflow!
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