What is the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)?

  • 3 minutes

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a feature from Microsoft that allows developers to run a GNU/Linux environment directly on Windows, without the need for a traditional virtual machine (VM) or dual-boot setup. Essentially, WSL provides a layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows.

The primary purpose of WSL is to enable developers who need to run a Linux-based computing environment alongside their Windows applications and tools. It's useful for those developers who code, build, test, or run applications that are designed for Linux systems.

Illustration of a laptop running Windows with the Linux penguin named Tux sitting next to it.

Benefits of using WSL for developers

WSL brings several benefits to developers:

  • Seamless Integration: WSL integrates with Windows to provide a near-native Linux experience. This means developers can use Windows apps and Linux tools on the same set of files, enhancing productivity.

  • Access to Linux Tools: WSL opens a whole new world of Linux tools and utilities for Windows users. These tools and utilities are especially beneficial for scripting, programming, and running applications that are more suited to a Linux environment.

  • Resource Efficiency: Unlike running a full VM, WSL is lightweight and resource-efficient, ensuring that your system's performance remains smooth.

  • Improved Workflow: For developers who work on cross-platform applications, WSL simplifies the workflow significantly. There's no need to switch between different systems or manage separate sets of files.

  • Enhanced Development Environment: With support for popular programming languages and frameworks, WSL is an excellent environment for development, especially when combined with powerful editors like Visual Studio Code.

Brief history and versions of WSL

Illustration of a laptop running with divisions for both Windows and Linux.

  • WSL 1: The first iteration of WSL, introduced in 2016, was groundbreaking in its approach to running Linux binaries on Windows. It translated Linux system calls to Windows system calls in real time. However, it had some performance limitations, particularly with file system operations.

  • WSL 2: Launched in 2019, WSL 2 represents a significant leap forward. It uses a real Linux kernel through a lightweight VM, which drastically improves performance. This change means better compatibility with Linux applications and more efficient use of system resources. WSL 2 also introduced full system call compatibility, enhancing the range of Linux applications that could run on Windows.

In summary, WSL evolved into an essential tool for developers who need a Linux environment along with their Windows workflow. Its development from WSL 1 to WSL 2 shows Microsoft's commitment to supporting cross-platform development, making it a versatile choice for modern software-development needs.

Let's now look at how we can set up WSL on our Windows machine.