How to Install Linux Subsystem on Windows 11

The launch of Windows 11 has brought a plethora of features and improvements to the operating system. One of the most interesting features that Windows 11 offers is the Linux Subsystem or Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). Linux is a well-known and reliable operating system that has been around for decades. WSL lets you run Linux-based applications on your Windows 11 PC without the need for a virtual machine. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of installing the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11.

Video Tutorial:

Why do you need the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11?

Linux is a powerful and feature-rich operating system that is widely used by developers and IT professionals. Installing Linux on your Windows PC would require a complex process of partitioning the hard drive and dual-booting the two operating systems. However, if you install the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11, you can run Linux-based applications within the Windows environment, saving you the hassle of dual-booting your PC.

System Requirements

Before we begin the installation process, you need to ensure that your PC meets the following requirements:

• Windows 11 build 16215 or later
• x64-based processor
• 4GB RAM or more
• At least 10GB of free storage space

Steps to Install Linux Subsystem on Windows 11

To install the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11, follow the steps below:

Q. How to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature?

To enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature, follow these steps:

A.

1. Open the Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Click on the "Apps" option from the left sidebar.
3. Click on the "Optional features" option.
4. Click on the "Add a feature" button.
5. Find and click on the "Windows Subsystem for Linux" feature from the list.
6. Click on the "Install" button to install the feature.
7. After the installation is complete, click on the "Restart now" button to restart your PC.

Q. How to download and install a Linux distribution?

To download and install a Linux distribution, follow these steps:

A.

1. Open the Microsoft Store on your PC.
2. Search for the Linux distribution you want to install, such as Ubuntu or Debian.
3. Select the Linux distribution from the search results.
4. Click on the "Get" button to download the distribution.
5. Once the download is complete, click on the "Launch" button to launch the distribution.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the Linux distribution.

Q. How to launch and use the Linux Subsystem?

To launch and use the Linux Subsystem, follow these steps:

A.

1. Click on the Start menu and search for "Linux."
2. Select the Linux distribution you want to use.
3. The first time you launch the Linux distribution, you’ll be prompted to create a user account and password.
4. Once the distribution is launched, you’ll have access to a Linux command-line interface.

Why can’t I Install the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11?

If you are unable to install the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11, it could be due to the following reasons:

• Your PC does not meet the system requirements.
• You are running an older version of Windows 11 that does not support the Linux Subsystem.
• You do not have administrative privileges on your PC.
• Your PC’s hardware does not support virtualization.

Conclusion

Installing the Linux Subsystem on Windows 11 is a straightforward process. With the Linux Subsystem, you can run Linux-based applications on your Windows PC without the need to dual-boot your PC. The Linux Subsystem is an excellent choice for developers and IT professionals who want to take advantage of the features of both Linux and Windows without the hassle of switching between the two operating systems. Just follow the steps outlined in this article, and you’ll be up and running in no time.