WSL2

Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL2) is the second generation of Microsoft’s environment for running Linux binaries on Windows. Unlike its predecessor, WSL1, which translated Linux system calls, WSL2 runs a real Linux kernel in a lightweight virtual machine, delivering full system call compatibility and improved performance for Linux applications.

WSL2 architecture centers on a managed, lightweight virtual machine that hosts a real Linux kernel provided and updated by Microsoft. The VM runs via virtualization features available in Windows, such as the Virtual Machine Platform. Users install Linux distributions from the Microsoft Store, and these distros run alongside Windows processes. Interoperability is supported so Windows programs can call Linux binaries and vice versa, with common file access through mounted paths like /mnt/c.

Performance and file I/O are major improvements in WSL2. The use of a true Linux kernel in a VM yields faster and more compatible execution of Linux software, particularly for development tools and scripts. The Windows and Linux filesystems are accessible to each other, and Windows drives are mounted under the Linux environment. Networking uses a virtual network interface and NAT to connect the Linux VM to the Windows host.

WSL2 integrates with the broader Windows developer ecosystem. Docker Desktop can use WSL2 as its backend, enabling container workflows. Windows 11 and certain Windows 10 builds offer Windows Subsystem for Linux GUI (WSLg), which enables Linux GUI applications to run alongside Windows applications. The Linux kernel in WSL2 is updated through Windows updates, and distributions can be installed or managed from the Microsoft Store.