Run Linux on Windows Without a VM: Step‑by‑Step Cygwin & MinGW Installation

Introduction

The author, known as "皮皮" on IT共享之家, shares a personal journey from using Windows to exploring Linux without a virtual machine, aiming to help readers set up a Linux‑like environment on Windows.

1. Built‑in Linux (WSL)

Windows 10 includes a built‑in Linux subsystem (WSL) that can be enabled without additional installation. Screenshots illustrate the feature.

2. Virtual Machine

While virtual machines (e.g., VirtualBox) can emulate Linux, they consume significant resources, so the author chooses to skip this method.

3. Cygwin Installation

Cygwin provides a Linux‑like environment on Windows. Download links for 32‑bit and 64‑bit versions are provided: https://u062.com/file/7715018-455128314 Installation steps:

Run the installer and choose "Install from Internet".

Select the installation directory.

Configure network settings (default proxy settings are kept).

Choose a domestic mirror for faster downloads.

Download and install desired packages, such as Python.

After installation, launch Cygwin to verify the environment and check the installed Python version.

4. MinGW (Wingw) for Multiple Languages

The author also recommends a tool called "Wingw" that bundles compilers for many programming languages. Download link: https://u062.com/file/7715018-455134532 Installation steps:

Open the downloaded MinGW-5.1.6.exe and follow the wizard.

Select the "Current" option to start downloading.

Choose the first and last options, set the installation path, and complete the installation.

Once installed, the command‑line tools can be used directly for coding.

Conclusion

Windows users now have a quick shortcut to explore Linux features and set up development environments without the overhead of a full virtual machine, enabling faster and more convenient programming.