Run Linux Distributions Directly on Windows 10 with the Subsystem for Linux

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

WSL is a built‑in compatibility layer in Windows 10 that allows native execution of Linux binaries without a virtual machine. It enables administrators and developers to run virtually any Linux command directly from a Windows host.

Enabling WSL

WSL must be enabled as an optional Windows feature (for example via

dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart

or through the “Turn Windows features on or off” control panel). After a system restart, the Linux environment can be installed from the Microsoft Store.

Available distributions

Ubuntu

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES)

openSUSE

Kali Linux

Debian GNU/Linux

Users can select any of the above distributions according to their requirements. Each distribution runs in its own isolated filesystem and can be launched from the Windows command line (e.g., wsl or ubuntu).

Usage notes

WSL provides near‑native performance for command‑line tools, scripts, and development workflows.

File system access is bidirectional: Windows paths are reachable under /mnt/c, and Linux files can be accessed from Windows Explorer.

Network interfaces are shared with the host, allowing standard networking commands.