Introduction
The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a Windows feature that enables running native Linux command line tools directly on Windows 11. This guide will go over how to install and set up WSL on Windows 11 devices.
Procedure
Step 1
The first thing that must be done is to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux. This is done via the Control Panel in the sidebar of Programs and Features. Click on Turn Windows features on or off
Step 2
Click on Windows Subsystem for Linux to select it and then click on OK. When it finishes, click Don't Restart.
Step 3
Start an ABR session and run Powershell as an administrator, or if you are already an admin on the device, just run Powershell as an admin. Type wsl.exe --install into the shell. Allow the install to finish, and then restart your PC.
If you are not familiar with how to use ABR, follow this guide: https://uwyo.teamdynamix.com/TDClient/1940/Portal/KB/Article/155122/Admin-By-Request
Step 4
After the reboot, proceed to the Microsoft Store. Enter Linux in the search box.
Step 5
There are several Linux distributions available for downloading; this example will cover the Ubuntu version which will install the Bash Shell. Click on the Ubuntu icon.
Step 6
Click on Get to initiate the download and installation.
Step 7
Click on Launch to bring up the Ubuntu command line window.
Step 8
The installation will finalize and a username and password will need to be established; this will be the default log in account when using the shell.
Step 9
It is recommended that the shell be updated with the following commands in the sequence shown:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
which will require the password set up in the previous step.
Step 10
The Bash Shell may be started by the Ubuntu icon in the Start Menu, by entering in the command bash in either a PowerShell or Command Prompt window, or entering in the command bash in the Run dialog box. To exit the shell session, enter in either the command exit or logout, or simply close the window.