Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a game-changer for developers, sysadmins, and tech enthusiasts who want to enjoy the power of Linux without leaving Windows 11. Whether you’re new to Linux or a seasoned pro, WSL lets you run native Linux command-line tools directly on Windows—with no virtual machine required.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up and use WSL on Windows 11, with clear steps and helpful tips. Let’s dive right in!
What is WSL and Why Use It?
WSL is a compatibility layer designed by Microsoft that lets you run Linux distributions on Windows 11 with deep integration. Think of it as having the best of both worlds—run popular Linux distros like Ubuntu alongside your favorite Windows apps without rebooting or complicated setups.
Benefits of WSL on Windows 11:
- Lightweight & fast Linux environment
- Full access to Linux command-line tools and utilities
- Seamless file system access between Windows and Linux
- Supports GUI apps (in WSL 2)
- Great for development, scripting, and education
Step 1: Enable Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 11
Activating WSL is straightforward and only takes a few minutes.
Option A: Using Powershell (Recommended)
- Open Windows Terminal as Administrator. (Press
Win + X→ select Windows Terminal (Admin)) -
Run the following command to enable WSL and install the latest Ubuntu distro:
powershell
wsl –installThis command will:
- Enable the WSL feature
- Enable the Virtual Machine Platform feature
- Download and install the latest WSL Linux kernel
- Set WSL 2 as the default version
- Install Ubuntu by default (you can change the distro later)
- Restart your PC when prompted.
Option B: Manual Enablement via Windows Features
- Press
Win + S, type Turn Windows features on or off, and open it. - Scroll down and check:
- Windows Subsystem for Linux
- Virtual Machine Platform
- Click OK and restart your PC.
-
After reboot, open PowerShell as admin and run:
powershell
wsl –set-default-version 2 - Download your preferred Linux distro (Ubuntu, Debian, Kali, etc.) from the Microsoft Store.
Step 2: Launch and Set Up Your Linux Distro
Once installed:
- Click Start and type your Linux distro name (e.g., Ubuntu), then open it.
- The first launch initializes the distro, which may take a minute.
- You’ll be prompted to create a Unix username and password—this is your Linux user account, separate from your Windows account.
Congratulations! You now have a working Linux shell on your Windows 11 machine.
Step 3: Use Linux Commands and Tools in Windows 11
Inside the terminal, you can run familiar Linux commands such as:
ls– list filescd– change directorygrep– search textaptoryum– install packages (depends on distro)ssh– connect to remote serversgit– version control
You can also directly access your Windows files inside WSL at /mnt/c/ — for example:
bash
cd /mnt/c/Users/YourName/Documents
Step 4: Upgrade and Manage Your WSL Version (Optional)
If you want to check which version your distro is using:
powershell
wsl -l -v
Output will show installed Linux distros and their WSL versions (1 or 2).
To upgrade a distro to WSL 2:
powershell
wsl –set-version
Replace <DistroName> with the actual name, e.g., Ubuntu.
Step 5: (Bonus) Run Linux GUI Applications and Integrate with Windows
Windows 11 supports GUI apps inside WSL 2 with WSLg. You can launch graphical Linux apps like VS Code, Gedit, or Firefox directly:
bash
sudo apt install gedit
gedit
You’ll see the Linux GUI window seamlessly appear alongside Windows apps.
Helpful Tips & Tricks
- Access Linux files from Windows: Navigate in File Explorer to
\\wsl$\Ubuntu\home\yourusernameto access Linux files. - Use Windows Terminal: Install the Windows Terminal app for multiple tabs, themes, and better integration.
- Custom distros: Install multiple Linux distros side-by-side.
- Integrate with Visual Studio Code: Use the Remote – WSL extension to develop in Linux environments from VS Code on Windows.
Final Words
With WSL on Windows 11, running Linux and Windows side-by-side is easier and more powerful than ever. Whether you’re coding, learning, or experimenting, this tool bridges the gap beautifully.
Give it a try today—you may never want to switch machines again!
Did you find this guide helpful? Bookmark it, share with friends, and stay tuned for more tips on mastering Windows 11 and Linux! 🚀
SEO Keywords Included:
- Windows Subsystem for Linux Windows 11
- How to use WSL on Windows 11
- Install Linux on Windows 11
- Windows 11 Linux terminal
- WSL 2 setup guide
- Run Linux GUI apps Windows
- Ubuntu on Windows 11
If you’d like, I can help you with troubleshooting or advanced WSL configurations next. Just ask!
