How to Enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)? [Easy Steps]
The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is one of the most powerful features, allowing you to run a real Linux environment directly inside Windows, without using virtual machines or complicated dual-boot setups. With WSL, you can install popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, or Kali Linux, run Linux commands, manage files, and even develop applications using Linux tools while staying on Windows.
Note: Before enabling WSL, it is important to understand a few basic requirements. Your system must be running Windows 10 version 1903 or later, or Windows 11. You also need administrator access to make system-level changes. Virtualization must be enabled in the system firmware, which is usually turned on by default in modern computers. Once these conditions are met, enabling WSL becomes a straightforward process.
Let’s learn how to enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) using easy steps!
How to enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)? [Easy Steps]
To enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), you need to turn on the WSL feature from Windows, enable the required virtualization components, install a Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store, and complete the initial setup. The entire process takes only a few minutes and works on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems that meet the minimum requirements.
Step 1: Check Your Windows Version and System Compatibility
The first step is to confirm that your Windows version supports Windows Subsystem for Linux. WSL is available on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, but older versions may have limited support.
To check your Windows version, open the Run dialog by pressing Windows key and R together. Type winver and press Enter. A window will appear showing your Windows version and build number.
If you are using Windows 11, you can proceed without any issues. If you are on Windows 10, make sure the version is 1903 or newer with Build 18362 or higher. If your version is older, updating Windows is required before continuing.
This step is important because WSL relies on newer system components that are not available in outdated Windows builds.
Step 2: Enable Windows Subsystem for Linux Feature
After confirming system compatibility, the next step is to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature from Windows settings.
Open the Start menu and search for Turn Windows features on or off. Click on the result to open the Windows Features window. This section allows you to enable or disable optional Windows components.
Scroll down until you find Windows Subsystem for Linux. Check the box next to it. Also, make sure that Virtual Machine Platform is enabled, as it is required for newer versions of WSL.
Click OK and wait for Windows to apply the changes. Once the process is complete, you will be asked to restart your computer. Restarting is necessary for the changes to take effect.
This step prepares Windows to run Linux binaries natively.
Step 3: Enable Virtualization in BIOS or UEFI
In most modern systems, virtualization is already enabled. However, if it is disabled, WSL may not work correctly.
To check virtualization status, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc. Go to the Performance tab and select CPU. On the right side, look for Virtualization. It should say Enabled.
If it shows Disabled, you will need to restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings. The key to enter BIOS varies by manufacturer but commonly includes F2, F10, Delete, or Esc.
Inside BIOS or UEFI, look for settings related to Virtualization Technology, Intel VT x, or AMD V. Enable the option, save changes, and exit.
Once virtualization is enabled, boot back into Windows and continue with the setup.
Step 4: Set WSL 2 as the Default Version
Microsoft recommends using WSL 2 because it offers better performance, full Linux kernel support, and improved compatibility.
To set WSL 2 as the default version, open Windows PowerShell as an administrator. You can do this by right-clicking the Start menu and selecting Windows Terminal Admin or PowerShell Admin.
In the PowerShell window, type the command to set the default WSL version to 2 and press Enter. After running the command, Windows will use WSL 2 for all newly installed Linux distributions.
This step ensures that you get the best performance and modern Linux features.
Step 5: Install a Linux Distribution from the Microsoft Store
Now that WSL is enabled, the next step is to install a Linux distribution.
Open the Microsoft Store and search for Linux. You will see several distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, Kali Linux, and openSUSE. Ubuntu is the most popular and beginner-friendly choice.
Click on your preferred distribution and select Install. The download size may vary, so wait until the installation is complete.
Once installed, you can launch the Linux distribution directly from the Start menu.
This step brings the Linux operating system environment into your Windows system.
Step 6: Complete Initial Linux Setup
When you launch the Linux distribution for the first time, it will take a few moments to complete the setup. This includes installing essential files and configuring the environment.
You will be asked to create a Linux username and password. This account is separate from your Windows account and is used only inside the Linux environment.
After setup is complete, you will see a Linux terminal window where you can start running Linux commands.
At this point, Windows Subsystem for Linux is fully enabled and ready to use.
Step 7: Verify WSL Installation
To confirm that WSL is working correctly, you can check the installed WSL version.
Open PowerShell and run the command that lists installed Linux distributions along with their WSL versions. You should see your installed distribution running on WSL 2.
You can also test basic Linux commands like ls, pwd, or uname inside the Linux terminal to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Verification helps confirm that the setup was successful and ready for daily use.
Faqs
What is Windows Subsystem for Linux?
Windows Subsystem for Linux is a Windows feature that allows users to run Linux distributions natively on Windows without virtual machines or dual-boot setups.
Is WSL available on Windows 10 Home?
Yes, WSL works on Windows 10 Home, Pro, and Enterprise, provided the system meets the version and hardware requirements.
What is the difference between WSL 1 and WSL 2?
WSL 1 uses a translation layer for Linux system calls, while WSL 2 uses a real Linux kernel. WSL 2 offers better performance, compatibility, and system support.
Does WSL affect system performance?
WSL is lightweight and uses system resources only when running. It does not slow down your computer when idle.
Can I run graphical Linux applications using WSL?
Yes, with newer Windows versions, WSL GUI support allows you to run Linux graphical applications directly on Windows.