Using Linux Natively Within Windows 10: A Quick Guide for Windows Developers
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a fantastic tool that allows developers to use Linux natively within their Windows 10 environment. With WSL, developers can dabble in Linux and enjoy the full capabilities of this powerful environment while preserving system resources. This article is a quick guide to help developers get started with WSL on their Windows machines.
First, to enable WSL, you'll need to navigate to your computer's settings and select "Apps & Features." From here, click on the "Programs and Features" option, then select "Turn Windows features on or off." Scroll down to the "Windows Subsystem for Linux" option and check the box to enable the feature.
Once you've enabled WSL, you'll need to install a Linux distribution. There are many distributions available, including Ubuntu, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, Kali Linux, and more. To install a distribution, open the Microsoft Store and search for your desired Linux distribution. Once you've found it, click on "Get" to download and install it on your machine.
Once your Linux distribution is installed, you can launch it from your Windows Start menu. This will open up a command-line interface, also known as a "shell." Here, you can access and run Linux commands just as you would in a native Linux environment.
One of the key benefits of WSL is the ability to access your Windows files from within your Linux shell. This means you can work in your Linux environment while still having access to your Windows files and directories. To access your Windows files, simply navigate to the "/mnt" directory within your Linux shell. From here, you can access your Windows files just like any other directory in Linux.
Another key benefit of WSL is improved compatibility with Windows tools and applications. Developers can use their favorite Windows development tools, such as Visual Studio or PowerShell, alongside their Linux environment. This means that you can develop in a Linux environment while still taking advantage of the Windows development toolset.
In conclusion, WSL is an excellent tool for Windows developers who want to dabble in Linux while preserving system resources. With WSL, developers can install and use Linux distributions natively within their Windows environment, access their Windows files from within Linux, and use their favorite Windows development tools alongside Linux. So, give it a try and see how WSL can improve your workflow today.
Keywords: Windows Subsystem for Linux, WSL, Linux, Windows 10, Windows development tools, Native Linux, Ubuntu, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server, Kali Linux, Microsoft Store.