Curious about diving into the world of Linux without giving up the comfort of Windows?
You’re in luck! With Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), you can seamlessly run Ubuntu alongside Windows 11—no dual-boot setups or complex configurations required.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, from enabling WSL to fixing common launch errors, so you can explore Linux right from your desktop. Let’s get started!
Why You Should Install Ubuntu Using WSL on Windows 11
There can be various reasons why you might need to install Ubuntu on your Windows 11. Here are some of the reasons:
- Dual Power: You get the best of both worlds—Windows for daily tasks and Ubuntu for development and scripting—all without rebooting or switching machines.
- Developer-Friendly Environment: Ubuntu offers powerful command-line tools, package managers like apt, and scripting capabilities that developers love.
- Ideal for Learning Linux: It’s perfect for beginners who want to explore Linux without committing to a full install. You can experiment safely within Windows.
- Performance Boost with WSL 2: The latest version of WSL runs Linux in a lightweight virtual machine, giving you better performance and compatibility than ever before.
- No Need for Dual Boot: Forget about partitioning disks and switching between systems. WSL keeps your workflow smooth and uninterrupted.
- Run Linux Software Seamlessly: Many tools and libraries used in machine learning, web development, and automation are Linux-based—WSL lets you use them directly.
- Secure and Isolated: It runs in a sandboxed environment, reducing risks and conflicts with your main system.
- Access to Open Source Ecosystem: Tap into a massive world of open-source utilities and frameworks that make problem-solving faster and more flexible.
Process to Install Ubuntu on Windows 11
Follow this step-by-step guide to install Ubuntu on your Windows PC.
Enable WSL via Windows Features
Now, here is how to install Ubuntu on your Windows 11 PC:
Type “Turn Windows features on or off” in Windows Search and open it.
In the dialog box, scroll down and find Windows Subsystem for Linux.
Check the box next to it.
Click on OK.
Windows will install the required files. After installation, you will be prompted to restart your computer.
Click Restart now.
Once your system restarts, open the Microsoft Store.
In the search bar, type “Ubuntu”.
You’ll see several options here
Click on the Ubuntu version you prefer. It’s better you should download the latest version.
Click the Get or Install button.
Wait for the installation to complete. You can also download it from Google.
After installation, launch Ubuntu.
If you see an error like this:
WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x8007019e
WSL 2 requires an update to its kernel component.
This means you need to update the WSL kernel manually.
Now, to fix this, visit the official Microsoft WSL 2 kernel update page:
https://aka.ms/wsl2kernel
Download the installer package usually named as this:
WSL2 Linux kernel update package for x64 machines
Run the installer:
Double-click the downloaded file.
Follow the setup wizard and click Next until it completes.
Open Ubuntu again from the Start menu. If asked in the command prompt to press any key to continue Windows Subsystem for Linux, do that.
Wait till the process completes.
Wait till you get this confirmation message.
Now, launch Ubuntu from Windows search.
This time, the app should launch without errors.
Wrapping Up
So, that was how to successfully set up Ubuntu on Windows 11 using WSL. Whether you’re developing software, running scripts, or just exploring the power of Linux, you’ve now unlocked a whole new level of flexibility and control.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share your experience or drop questions.
