Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
Also known as: WSL, WSL 2, Windows Subsystem for Linux
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a Windows feature that lets you run Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu, alongside Windows.
Developers use it to run Linux command-line tools, programming environments, and even graphical Linux apps without setting up a separate computer, dual boot, or traditional virtual machine. While WSL is a huge convenience for developers, it adds another operating system to keep updated and secure on company devices.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), explained at three levels
At home
WSL is like having a second kitchen built into your house. You can cook Linux-style recipes without moving to a different house.
At work
WSL lets developers on Windows laptops use Linux tools that match the company's servers.
At home
Install WSL by opening a terminal as administrator and typing 'wsl --install'. It sets up Ubuntu by default, and you can access your Windows files from Linux.
At work
WSL 2 uses a lightweight virtual machine with a real Linux kernel. File access across Windows and Linux is slower, so keep project files inside the Linux file system for speed.
At home
WSL is great for learning Linux commands without risk. In my opinion, it's the easiest first step for anyone curious about Linux.
At work
WSL distributions need their own patching, and some endpoint security tools have limited visibility into them. Control WSL through Intune policies, and decide whether it's allowed outside developer roles.
Real-world examples
At home
Aisha is learning to code. WSL let her follow Linux-based tutorials on her Windows laptop without buying another computer.
At work
Thomas manages developer laptops at a Gatineau software firm. He allowed WSL for engineers only, with security tools configured to monitor it.
How it compares
| feature | Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) | Virtual Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Setup effort | One command | More involved |
| Resource use | Light | Heavier |
| Integration with Windows | Tight | Separate |
| Isolation | Lower | Higher |
WSL is lighter and more integrated. VMs are more isolated.
For analysts
When developers request WSL, I'd involve security early. It's a legitimate productivity tool, but monitoring and patching need explicit owners.
History & origin
Microsoft announced WSL in 2016 and released it with the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, translating Linux commands into Windows equivalents. In 2019, Microsoft announced WSL 2, released in 2020, which runs a real Linux kernel in a lightweight virtual machine for much better compatibility and speed. Support for graphical Linux apps, called WSLg, arrived in 2021, and WSL became installable from the Microsoft Store. In May 2025, Microsoft made WSL open source. In my view, WSL marked a remarkable shift from Microsoft's earlier hostility toward Linux.