Why Windows 24H2 update results in Linux section disappearing from File Explorer?

Question

The moment, I upgraded my PC from 23H2 to 24H2, the Linux section of my WSL2 vanished from file explorer.

But Ubuntu was working in WSL2 and all my files were still present. Still, I was not able to access that from file explorer.

I rolled back to 23H2 and the Linux section reappeared in the file explorer. Why does this happen ? Is this a bug ?

Answer 1

For me this worked too. I did get some warnings while running the WSL app the first time, and I rebooted. But a simple restart of the Windows explorer could have also been sufficient.

Thanks : these simple 3 steps did the trick for me

1. start menu -> search -> wsl and started it ( after a while the terminal appeared, surprisingly my wsl/ubuntu was already launched I thought it was the same ?? )
2. task manager with a simple [ctrl]-[alt]-[suppr]
3. and then Windows Explorer -> restart

I'm just not totally sure the first step was absolutely necessary,

A simple reboot could aswell do the same : now I realise my computer always goes in sleep mode and rarely reboots ...

Answer 2

Hi,

I had the same issue and for me worked just starting the wsl app.

Answer 3

For me this worked too. I did get some warnings while running the WSL app the first time, and I rebooted. But a simple restart of the Windows explorer could have also been sufficient.

Answer 4

This issue is specific to the 24H2 update. I am able to access the linux drive in file explorer in 23H2. But this is missing in 24H2. Making me unable to transfer files from my regular hard drive to linux specific region. But WSL2 is still working through terminal.

As you can see this section on Linux in file explorer is no longer accessible when I upgrade my windows to 24H2

Answer 5

Hi Karthik Gopakumar,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

We understand the frustration of your device experiencing the disappearance of Linux icons.

This does reduce the convenience of the daily device experience.

Just to date, the Answers community has not received general feedback about Linux icon-specific issues.

Some community members will try to access WSL paths using specific paths.

Accessing Windows Subsystem for Linux from the File Explorer in Win 11 - Microsoft Community

In addition to the potential "bug" you are concerned about, in some early threads, such phenomena may be related to specific registry entries. Here are some related examples. If possible, you can try to check the registry entries related to it.

Disclaimer: Microsoft provides no assurances and/or warranties, implied or otherwise, and is not responsible for the information you receive from the third-party linked sites or any support related to technology.

No access to Ubuntu files from Linux icon in file explorer - Microsoft Community

Remove "Linux" "partition" from File Explorer after installing WSL - Microsoft Community

How do I disable the Linux icon in File Explorer, leaving WSSL - Microsoft Community

Disclaimer: Generally, modifying registry subkeys or work group is intended for advanced users, administrators, and IT Professionals. It can help fix some problems, however, serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Therefore, make sure that you follow these steps carefully. For further protection, back up the registry before you modify it. Then, you can restore the registry if a problem occurs. For more information about how to back up and restore the registry, click How to back up and restore the registry in Windows - Microsoft Support to view the article. 

If I misunderstand your situation, feel free to correct me and share the information.

Best Regards,

Kyo.Y - MSFT | Microsoft Community Technical Support