Windows Subsystem for Linux leaves preview, makes its way to Windows 11 and Windows 10 through Microsoft Store

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The Microsoft Store version of WSL is now the default experience on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Windows 11 running Linux
(Image credit: Future)

What you need to know

  • The Windows Subsystem for Linux in the Microsoft Store is officially out of preview.
  • The store version of WSL is now the default experience for new users and those who upgrade.
  • WSL is now available through the Microsoft Store on both Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Developers, IT admins, and Linux fans have some good news this week. The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) in the Microsoft Store is officially out of preview.  The latest version of WSL includes hundreds of bug fixes and improvements. The store version is also now the default version of WSL and is available on both Windows 11 and Windows 10.

WSL is a popular tool among developers and Linux fans because it allows you to run Linux inside of Windows. Microsoft has worked to integrate WSL deep into Windows throughout the feature's preview period and achieved success. For example, you can access the WSL file system directly through the default Windows File Explorer.

Linux is popular among a range of communities but is often used by developers and IT professionals. Having the ability to run Linux within Windows frees of workflows and eliminates the need for having multiple systems.

The latest version of WSL includes several features. Microsoft's Craig Loewen shared the highlights in a developer blog post:

WSL: What's new

  • You can opt in for systemd support
  • Windows 10 users can now use Linux GUI apps! This was previously only available to Windows 11 users
  • wsl --install now includes:
    • Direct installation from the Microsoft Store by default
    • --no-launch option to not launch the distro after installing
    • --web-download option which will download the distro through our GitHub releases page rather than through the Microsoft Store
  • wsl --mount now includes:
    • --vhd option to make mounting VHD files easier
    • --name option to make naming the mountpoint easier
  • wsl --import and wsl --export now include:
    • --vhd option to import or export to a VHD directly
  • Added wsl --import-in-place to take an existing .vhdx file and register it as a distro
  • Added wsl --version to print your version information more easily
  • wsl --update now includes:
    • Opening the Microsoft Store page by default
    • --web-download option to allow updates from our GitHub release page
  • Better error printing
  • All of WSLg and the WSL kernel are packaged into the same WSL package, meaning no more extra MSI installs!

At the moment, the latest version of WSL is only available to seekers. It will be sent out automatically in mid-December. You can get the update by going to the Windows Settings app and checking for updates. Your system needs to be on Windows 10 version 21H1, 21H2, or 22H2, or Windows 11 21H2 to get the update.

The GitHub releases page for WSL can be used to install the most recent version manually.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.