How to Install Linux Distributions from the Microsoft Store Next, type the following, replacing distro with the name of the Linux distribution you wish to install: wsl -install -d distroįor example, if you want to install openSUSE, you would type the following: wsl -install -d openSUSEĪs with Ubuntu, allow time for the wsl command to install your preferred distribution. To find available distributions of Linux on your PC, enter the following in your Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Windows Terminal window: wsl -l -o It’s also worth noting that you don’t have to use Ubuntu with WSL-you can install other versions of Linux. How to Install Alternative Linux WSL Distributions You can also find it manually under its first letter in the app list. To launch WSL, open the Start menu-you should discover Ubuntu under the “ Recently Installed” section. When it’s complete, you’ll see a message prompting you to restart your Windows 11 PC to complete the installation.Īfter your PC reboots, sign in to Windows, and you should find you’re able to use your Linux system. You can monitor the progress of the installation in the window. You’ll need to wait while Windows 11 enables WSL, activates GUI app support, and installs the default Linux distribution (Ubuntu) on your PC. To do this, type the following command and hit Enter: wsl -install In your admin-level PowerShell or Command Prompt window, you’re able to install and enable WSL with a single command. If the UAC prompt appears, make sure to allow your chosen app to run. Hover over the Best match result, then select Run as administrator on the right. To do this, open the Start menu (or press the Windows key) and type cmd to search for the Command Prompt or powershell to open a new PowerShell window. You can use either tool to do this-pick whichever environment you’re most comfortable in.

The quickest way to install WSL on Windows 11 is via the Command Prompt or PowerShell. How to Install Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 11

Here’s how to get Windows Subsystem for Linux running on your Windows 11 PC. Windows 11 includes support for Linux apps running with GPU access, making it a versatile tool for different types of users. From there, you can use commands to install and run Linux apps alongside Windows software. Once you have WSL running, you’ll have access to the Linux shell from the new Windows terminal. Windows 11 uses WSL 2.0, an upgraded version of WSL designed to run a full Linux kernel in a Hyper-V environment.

Microsoft allows you to enable WSL on all major versions of Windows 11, meaning you don’t need to upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro to use it.

Install Fsl Windows