WSL2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux version 2) is a new version of the architecture that allows you to use Linux on top of Windows 10 natively (using a lightweight virtual machine) and replaces WSL. Show
The feature runs an actual Linux kernel in this new version, which improves performance and app compatibility over the previous version while maintaining the same experience as the first release. This guide will teach you the steps to install the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 on Windows 10.
Microsoft has simplified the installation process of the WSL on Windows 10 2004 and higher releases (including version 21H2 and 21H1) to only one command that downloads and installs all the required components, including the virtual machine platform and Ubuntu Linux by default. To install Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 10, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the required Linux components will automatically install the latest version of the Ubuntu Linux distribution. Install WSL with specific distroTo install WSL with a specific distro on Windows 10, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 components will install with the distro of Linux you specified. Update WSL kernelTo update the WSL kernel to the latest version, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, if an update is available, it will download and install on the device. If the update command doesn’t work, open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options, and turn on the “Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows” toggle switch. Install WSL2 on Windows 10 1909 or olderAlternatively, using the legacy processes, you can still install WSL on Windows 10 version 1909 and older versions. The process requires enabling WSL1, the Virtual Machine Platform, converting existing distros (if applicable), and configuring the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 as the new default for future distro installations. If you have an ARM64 system, the Linux integration is supported on version 2004 and higher. Enable Windows Subsystem for LinuxIf you are not already using Linux on Windows 10, you must enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux (version 1) with these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you must enable the Virtual Machine Platform feature. Enable Virtual Machine PlatformTo enable the Virtual Machine Platform on Windows 10, use these steps: Important: The motherboard and processor must support virtualization, and the option has to be enabled on the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI).
After you complete the steps, you can set the Windows Subsystem for Linux version 2 as the new default architecture and convert existing distros. Enable Windows Subsystem for Linux 2To start using WSL2 or covert WSL distros to WSL2, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, your device will start using the new version of Windows Subsystem for Linux as the default architecture. (See video tutorial on the Pureinfotech YouTube channel.) Confirm distro platformTo confirm distros are using the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you will know if the process was successful or if you need to troubleshoot any of the steps. How do I change WSL to version 2?Upgrade version from WSL 1 to WSL 2
To see whether your Linux distribution is set to WSL 1 or WSL 2, use the command: wsl -l -v . To change versions, use the command: wsl --set-version <distro name> 2 replacing <distro name> with the name of the Linux distribution that you want to update.
Can I uninstall Windows Subsystem for Linux update?Step two: Uninstall Windows Subsystem for Linux update
Open Settings. Click on Apps. Click on Apps & features. Select the Windows Subsystem for Linux update item and click the Uninstall button.
How do I know if WSL2 is enabled?Confirm distro platform. Open Start.. Search for PowerShell, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.. Type the following command to verify the version of the distro and press Enter: wsl --list --verbose.. Confirm the distro version is 2.. What version of WSL do I have installed?Open Start. Search for Command Prompt (or PowerShell), right-click the top result and select the Run as administrator option. Quick tip: You can also write the command like this: wsl -l -v . Under the “Version” collum, confirm the WSL version installed on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
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