How to activate Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows

If you want to run a Linux terminal on Windows, your best bet is to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), a port opener that allows you to install the Linux bash shell on Windows operating systems. After activating WSL, you can install the Linux distribution.

Requirements to run WSL on Windows 10

Before activating Windows Subsystem for Linux, you should know the minimum requirements needed to run WSL.

According to Microsoft, you should be running Windows 10 (64-bit) version 2004 or later with Build 19041 or later. All versions of Windows 11 can run WSL.

If you're not sure about your version of Windows 10, you can easily check which version of Windows 10 you have installed.

Some older versions of Windows 10 may also work but you will have to install WSL manually.

How to activate Windows Subsystem for Linux

To install the Linux bash shell on Windows 10, you must first enable Windows Subsystem for Linux.

You'll know if WSL is enabled if you get the error: 'The Windows Subsystem for Linux optional component is not enabled. Please enable it and try again' .

Here's how to enable WSL in Windows 10:

First, you need to access Programs and Features .

1. Open Settings on Windows 10 and select Apps .
2. On the right side of the window, under Related settings , click Programs and Features .

Once you're signed in, click Turn Windows features on or off on the left panel. Then scroll down and check the corresponding box to enable Windows Subsystem for Linux.

Click OK to save your changes and click Restart now to finish the process.

Install WSL on Windows machine

With WSL enabled on your Windows device, you can install Windows Subsystem for Linux. You can then install any supported Linux distribution right inside your Windows PC. Choosing a small, lightweight Linux distribution can help.

You can also install a Linux desktop in Windows to give you a graphical user interface to work with.