Want the best of both worlds—Windows for everyday tasks and Linux for development or advanced control? With Windows 11, you don’t need two separate machines or constant rebooting to switch between operating systems. Thanks to Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), Microsoft lets you run Linux directly inside Windows. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to set it up and start using Linux alongside Windows 11 like a pro.
Why Run Linux on Windows 11?
Before jumping in, let’s talk about why this is even useful.
- Developers: You can code, test, and run Linux tools without leaving Windows.
- Students/Learners: Perfect for practicing Linux commands without dual-booting.
- IT Pros: Use Linux servers and scripts while keeping Windows apps handy.
- Everyday Users: Run Linux apps or troubleshoot in a Linux shell.
Think of it as having two toolboxes at once—you get Windows’ ease and Linux’s power in one setup.
What Is WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)?
WSL is a compatibility layer that allows Linux distributions to run natively on Windows. Unlike virtual machines, WSL is lightweight and runs directly on the Windows kernel.
WSL 1 vs. WSL 2
- WSL 1: Faster startup, lighter, but limited system calls.
- WSL 2: Full Linux kernel, better performance, Docker support, but slightly heavier.
For most users, WSL 2 is the way to go.
Step 1: Check System Requirements
Before installing, make sure your system is ready.
- OS: Windows 11 (Home, Pro, or Enterprise).
- Architecture: 64-bit.
- Features Enabled: Virtualization must be turned on in BIOS.
To check if virtualization is enabled:
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- Go to Performance > CPU.
- Look for Virtualization: Enabled.
If it’s disabled, you’ll need to enable it in your BIOS settings.
Step 2: Install WSL
Windows 11 makes installing WSL easier than ever.
Quick Install Method
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Run:
wsl --install - Restart your PC when prompted.
That’s it! WSL is now installed.
Step 3: Choose and Install a Linux Distribution
After installing WSL, you’ll need to pick a Linux distribution.
Popular Options in Microsoft Store:
- Ubuntu (most common, beginner-friendly).
- Debian (lightweight, minimalistic).
- Kali Linux (great for security testing).
- openSUSE (enterprise-grade).
To install:
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Search for your chosen distro (e.g., Ubuntu).
- Click Get and install.
Step 4: Set Up Your Linux Environment
Once installed, launch your distro from the Start Menu. The first time you run it:
- It will extract files (takes a few minutes).
- You’ll be asked to create a username and password.
Congrats—you now have a Linux terminal running inside Windows!
Step 5: Update Linux Packages
Just like on a real Linux machine, update your system:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
(This works for Ubuntu/Debian-based distros. Other distros use different commands.)
Step 6: Access Linux Files from Windows
One of the coolest features of WSL is seamless file access.
- Your Linux files live inside:
\\wsl$\<DistroName> - You can open them in File Explorer just like normal folders.
This makes it super easy to move files back and forth.
Step 7: Run Linux Commands and Tools
Now you can:
- Use bash commands like
ls,cd,grep. - Install Linux tools (e.g.,
git,curl,vim). - Run servers (Apache, Nginx, etc.) directly inside Windows.
It’s basically a Linux terminal embedded in Windows.
Step 8: Run Linux GUI Apps on Windows 11
Here’s where Windows 11 gets really exciting—Linux GUI apps work out of the box.
To Try It Out:
- Install a Linux app (example: Gedit).
sudo apt install gedit -y - Launch it by typing:
gedit
It opens in a window on your Windows desktop, just like a native app!
Step 9: Use Windows and Linux Together
The integration is surprisingly smooth:
- You can run Windows apps from Linux (e.g.,
notepad.exe). - You can call Linux commands from PowerShell (e.g.,
wsl ls). - You can use both environments at the same time without rebooting.
It’s like having two operating systems shaking hands instead of fighting.
Step 10: Manage Your WSL Instances
Over time, you might want to manage or remove distros.
- List installed distros:
wsl --list --verbose - Set default distro:
wsl --set-default <DistroName> - Uninstall a distro:
wsl --unregister <DistroName>
Troubleshooting WSL Issues
Problem 1: WSL Command Not Found
Make sure you ran the installation command as Administrator.
Problem 2: Virtualization Disabled
Enable it in your BIOS and restart.
Problem 3: Linux Apps Don’t Launch
Update WSL with:
wsl --update
When to Use a Virtual Machine Instead
While WSL is great, sometimes you may still want a full VM:
- If you need kernel modules or deep hardware access.
- If you want complete isolation between Windows and Linux.
- If you’re testing multiple operating systems simultaneously.
For most users though, WSL is more than enough.
Conclusion
Windows 11 makes running Linux easier than ever. With WSL, you can install your favorite distro, run Linux commands, and even launch GUI apps—without leaving Windows. It’s a powerful way to blend two worlds: Windows’ convenience and Linux’s flexibility. Whether you’re coding, testing, or just curious, WSL turns your PC into a true cross-platform powerhouse.
FAQs
1. Can I run Linux apps with a graphical interface in Windows 11?
Yes! Windows 11 supports Linux GUI apps out of the box with WSL 2.
2. Do I need to dual-boot Windows and Linux anymore?
Not necessarily. WSL makes dual-boot unnecessary for most users, unless you need full hardware access.
3. Is WSL free to use?
Absolutely. WSL and Linux distros from the Microsoft Store are completely free.
4. Can I install multiple Linux distros in WSL?
Yes, you can install and switch between as many distros as you like.
5. Does WSL slow down my Windows PC?
No, WSL is lightweight and runs alongside Windows with minimal performance impact.