WSLg adds support for Wayland and X server scenarios to the Windows Subsystem for Linux.
Open source
10 alternativesWsl
Windows Subsystem for Linux lets users run Linux environments within the Windows operating system.
About Wsl
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is an open source Microsoft tool that lets users run unmodified Linux command-line tools, utilities, and applications directly on the Windows operating system. It removes the need for traditional virtual machine setups or dual boot configurations, reducing overhead for users who need access to Linux software.
You can install WSL quickly by running the wsl --install command in the Windows command line. The project is supported by related open source repositories, including one for the custom Linux kernel shipped with WSL and another for Linux GUI app support. The software logs basic diagnostic telemetry by default, which users can disable per the repository’s documentation.
WSL is designed for Windows users who regularly need Linux tooling for tasks like software development, scripting, or system administration, without switching their primary operating system.
Key features
- Run unmodified Linux command-line tools and apps on Windows
- Eliminates need for traditional VMs or dual boot setups
- Install via simple
wsl --installcommand - Includes optional diagnostic telemetry users can disable
- Supported by related open source kernel and GUI app repos
Best for: It is best suited for Windows users who need to run Linux command-line tools, utilities, or applications for development, scripting, or administration without switching operating systems.
Good for
- Runs unmodified Linux software directly on Windows
- Avoids overhead of virtual machines or dual booting
- Open source with public repository for community contributions
- Simple one-command installation process
Watch out for
- Requires Windows operating system to function
- Some detailed error outputs are not fully localized
Wsl at a glance
- Website
- github.com/microsoft/WSL
- Category
- Software & Utilities › Virtualization
- Type
- Open-source project
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Linux, Windows
- Open source
- Yes · Source code
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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Wsl FAQ
Is WSL free to use?
Yes, WSL is open source and available at no cost via its public GitHub repository.
Do I need a virtual machine to use WSL?
No, WSL runs unmodified Linux tools directly on Windows without traditional virtual machine or dual boot overhead.
Can I run Linux GUI applications with WSL?
Yes, related open source repositories including microsoft/WSLg provide support for Linux GUI apps in WSL.
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