How to Check Windows Subsystem for Linux Version
The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a built-in Windows 10 and 11 feature that lets you run Linux command-line tools and apps right alongside your regular Windows programs. Checking your WSL version takes just a few seconds and shows whether your system runs version 1 or version 2.
Version 2 is much faster and uses a real Linux kernel, which makes a big difference if you work with heavy files or code. You only need to run a quick command in PowerShell to see your current version number and figure out if you need to update.
Open PowerShell or Command Prompt as administrator and run the command `wsl -l -v`. This will display a list of your installed Linux distributions and their corresponding WSL version numbers. You will see either version 1 or version 2.
Why check your WSL version?
Checking your WSL version reveals whether you are running the legacy WSL 1 or the faster WSL 2, which includes a full Linux kernel.
What happens when done?
Running the command displays your installed Linux distributions, along with their status and version number. This confirms which environment currently handles your Linux workloads.
Steps to check your WSL version
A quick query in PowerShell or Command Prompt retrieves your Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) version. This tells you which generation of the architecture runs on your Windows computer. Monitoring this detail helps maintain compatibility with modern Linux tools.
- Click the Start menu.
- Search for PowerShell or Command Prompt.
- Right-click the result and select Run as administrator.
Open PowerShell or Command Prompt, type the following command, and press Enter:
wsl --list --verbose
A shorter version is also available:
wsl -l -v
The output displays your installed distributions and their version numbers:
NAME STATE VERSION * Ubuntu Running 2 Debian Stopped 1
Understanding WSL 2 vs WSL 1
Legacy WSL 1 translates system calls into Windows commands on the fly. WSL 2, by contrast, operates with a real Linux kernel inside a lightweight utility virtual machine. This architectural shift accelerates file operations and guarantees full system call compatibility. Container software like Docker Desktop requires WSL 2 to function correctly.
How to upgrade to WSL 2
Upgrading to WSL 2 significantly speeds up Linux workflows on Windows. Applications like Docker rely heavily on these performance gains. The following steps update the subsystem and convert existing distributions to version 2.
wsl --update
Then, set your distribution to version 2:
wsl --set-version <distro-name> 2
Substitute <distro-name> with the name appearing in your terminal list. Consult the official Microsoft WSL installation guide for advanced configuration options.
Summary
Reviewing your Windows Subsystem for Linux version involves running the 'wsl -l -v' command in an administrator terminal. Migrating to WSL 2 is recommended for most workloads due to superior performance, particularly for development utilities like Docker Desktop. Executing 'wsl --update' keeps core components current.- WSL allows you to run Linux tools directly inside Windows.
- Use
wsl -l -vin an administrator terminal to check your version. - WSL 2 is faster and recommended for most users, especially for Docker Desktop.
- Always run
wsl --updateto keep your kernel current. - Upgrading is simple using the
wsl --set-versioncommand.
Why does my WSL version show as 1?
Distributions show as version 1 when installed prior to version 2 becoming the default architecture. WSL 1 relies on a translation layer, whereas WSL 2 runs a virtualized Linux kernel for native-like performance. Converting existing environments requires executing the wsl --set-version command in a terminal window.
How to check if WSL 2 is supported on my Windows build?
WSL 2 requires Windows 10 version 1903 or higher, or Windows 11. Press the Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter to check your Windows build number. Operating systems running build 18362 or higher meet the prerequisites for running WSL 2 environments.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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