WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

WSL enables running Linux binary executables natively on Windows without dual-booting or VMs.

What is WSL?

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a compatibility layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows, with WSL 2 using a real Linux kernel in a lightweight VM.

WSL 2 features

Real Linux kernel, Full system call compatibility, Docker support, GPU support.

Common misconceptions

"WSL is slow" — WSL 2 has near-native performance
"WSL can't run GUI apps" — WSLg supports GUI
"WSL replaces dual boot" — Some limitations remain