How to Install WSL on Windows 11 for Linux Apps 

Quick Tips

• A WSL, or Windows Subsystem for Linux, allows you to run Linux-specific apps on a Windows system.
• After installing the Linux distribution, it’s important to check that you have the updated version.
• You can install your preferred Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store.

For most Windows users, running applications designed for Linux has been a challenge due to their inherent incompatibility. Luckily, there is a way to bridge the gap between these two operating systems and run Linux-specific apps in Windows. Windows Subsystem for Linux, or WSL, is one such solution.

How to Install WSL on Windows 11

On Windows, you need administrative permissions to install any new system features.

Step 1: Type ‘Command Prompt’ or ‘cmd’ in the Search bar.

Step 2: Right-click and select ‘Run as administrator.’

Step 3: In the command box, enter the following command install WSL:

wsl –install

This will install the version of WSL that is compatible with your computer’s version of Windows. It will also install any other software that the WSL needs in order to run on your computer.

If you already had a WSL installed, this command will just update it to the newest version.

Step 4: Once the WSL is installed, you should restart your computer. This reboots the system and ensures the process was completed properly. 

Step 5: Launch your new Linux distribution.

The Linux distribution is the name of the software platform that will allow you to run Linux-specific apps. The default Linux distribution is Ubuntu. 

After restarting your computer, Ubuntu may launch automatically. If it doesn’t, you need to open the search bar and look for ‘Ubuntu.’

Step 6: Set up your Linux username and password.

Linux requires a user account to be set up before you can use it. Choose a username and password to login with.

It’s important to note that this login is only for the Linux distribution, not your Windows system.

Update and Upgrade Linux Packages

Before you try running an app, check that your Linux distribution is using the most updated version of software. Here is how:

Step 1: Open your Linux distribution and enter the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Enter your Linux password.

Verify WSL Version and Set WSL2 as Default

There are different versions of the WSL that you can install. WSL2 is more modern and performs better. 

Check Installed Version

Step 1: Open the command prompt and enter ‘wsl -l -v’

Step 2: Scroll down to see which version is set to default. 

Set WSL2 as Default

To set WSL2 as your default, enter the following command instead:

wsl –set-default-version 2

Choose a Different Linux Distribution

Most of the time, systems install Ubuntu as the default distribution. However, if you want to change it, here’s how:

Step 1: Open the Microsoft Store and search for Linux distributions.

Step 2: Choose the Linux distribution and click Install.

Step 3: Repeat the setup steps.