How to Install WSL 2 on Windows 10 Easily

Welcome to our guide on how to install WSL 2 on Windows 10. If you’re looking to run real Linux on your Windows machine without setting up a virtual machine, you’ve come to the right place. And don’t worry, we’ve made the installation process super easy for you!

Why Install WSL 2 on Windows 10

WSL 2 takes the Linux experience on Windows 10 to the next level. By installing WSL 2, you’ll be able to enjoy a seamless Linux environment right on your Windows desktop. It’s a great way to access Linux tools and apps without the need for a separate machine.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Verify Your Windows Version

Before we begin, make sure you have Windows 10 version 2004 or higher. To check your Windows version, follow these steps:

  • Click on the Start menu and search for “About your PC”.
  • Select “About your PC” from the search results.
  • Scroll down and look for the “OS build” information. If the build number is 2004 or higher, you’re good to go!

Step 2: Install WSL 2

Once you’ve confirmed that you have the correct Windows version, follow these steps to install WSL 2:

  • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by right-clicking on the Start menu and selecting “Command Prompt (Admin)”.
  • Type the following command and press Enter: wsl --install
  • Restart your computer to complete the installation process.

Step 3: Set Up a Linux Distribution

Now that WSL 2 is installed, it’s time to set up a Linux distribution. Follow these steps:

  • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type the following command and press Enter to see a list of available Linux distributions: wsl --list --online
  • Select the Linux distribution you want to install. For example, to install Ubuntu, type the following command and press Enter: wsl --install -d Ubuntu (replace “Ubuntu” with the name of your preferred distribution).
  • Once the installation is complete, restart your computer.

Step 4: Update WSL Kernel

To ensure you have the latest version of WSL, follow these steps:

  • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type the following command and press Enter: wsl --update

When an update is available, it will be automatically downloaded and installed on your device.

Common Questions

  • Q: Can I install WSL 2 on older versions of Windows?
    A: No, WSL 2 is only available on Windows 10 version 2004 and higher.
  • Q: How do I choose a different Linux distribution?
    A: Use the command wsl --list --online to see a list of available distributions, then use the command wsl --install -d DISTRO-NAME to install the distribution of your choice (replace “DISTRO-NAME” with the actual name of the distribution).

Discover More about WSL 2

WSL 2 offers a lot more than just running Linux on Windows. Stay up to date with the latest tech news and interesting facts about WSL 2 by checking out our blog or following us on social media. You’ll find fascinating insights into the world of Windows and Linux integration!

Thank you for joining us on this WSL 2 installation journey. We hope you now have a better understanding of how to get started with WSL 2 on Windows 10. Enjoy your Linux experience!

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through our contact form. And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!

James Hogan
James Hogan
James Hogan is a notable content writer recognized for his contributions to Bollyinside, where he excels in crafting informative comparison-based articles on topics like laptops, phones, and software. When he's not writing, James enjoys immersing himself in football matches and exploring the digital realm. His curiosity about the ever-evolving tech landscape drives his continuous quest for knowledge, ensuring his content remains fresh and relevant.

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