Introduction
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows you to run a Linux distribution alongside your Windows installation. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of installing WSL 2 with Ubuntu on Windows.
Prerequisites
Windows 10 or 11: Ensure you are using a Windows Operating System.
Administrator Privileges: You need administrative privileges to enable WSL.
Internet Connection: An active internet connection is necessary to download Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store.
Enabling WSL on Windows
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Run the following command to enable WSL 2:
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart
Enable Virtual Machine Platform feature:
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart
Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Installing Ubuntu on WSL 2
Open PowerShell as Administrator and run the command:
wsl --update
Open the Microsoft Store and search for "Ubuntu". Select Ubuntu from the search results.
Click "Get". Wait for the installation to complete.
Configuring Ubuntu on WSL 2
- Launch Ubuntu from the Start menu or by typing "ubuntu" in the Windows search bar.
Set up your UNIX username and password (student/student) when prompted. Remember these credentials; you will need them later.
Ubuntu will complete its installation, and you will be prompted to enter your username and password to log in.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully installed WSL 2 with Ubuntu on your Windows OS. You can now enjoy a Linux-like environment directly within your Windows OS.