How to install WSL Containers in Windows 11
WSL Containers let you run Linux applications directly on your Windows 11 PC.
This feature is built into the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which lets you use Linux tools alongside your Windows apps.
WSL Containers make managing common container tools like Docker much easier, especially by integrating them with your existing WSL setup.
Microsoft first added this capability with WSL version 1.0.0.
Running Linux containers on Windows 11 means you can use tools like Docker without needing a separate Linux machine, simplifying your development work.
Update your WSL to the pre-release version by running ‘wsl –update –pre-release’ as administrator, then restart WSL with ‘wsl –shutdown’. Finally, verify the installation by typing ‘wslc –help’ in Command Prompt.
Step 1Get Your WSL Ready for the Preview
Before you can use containers, you need to update your WSL to the latest preview version. This is where the setup process begins.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator
You need to open Command Prompt as an administrator to run certain commands, like updating WSL.
Update WSL to the Pre-Release Version
You need to update your Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to its pre-release version before you can install WSL containers. Open a special command window and type `wsl –update –pre-release`. This command downloads the latest test updates for WSL, which might take a few minutes depending on your internet speed.
The `wsl –update –pre-release` command tells Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to find and get the newest test updates. Downloading these updates takes time, usually a few minutes. The download speed depends on your internet connection and the size of the updates, which can be up to 100 megabytes.
Restart WSL
Restarting Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is crucial after updating WSL for changes to take effect. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the `wsl –shutdown` command. This command safely stops all running Linux programs within WSL, so make sure to save your work before using `wsl –shutdown`.
wsl --shutdownThis command will safely stop all running WSL programs. You won’t see much happen on the screen. But it’s a very important step.
wsl --shutdown. This command will close all active Linux programs.Step 2Check Your WSL Installation
Now that you’ve updated and restarted, let’s make sure everything is working. We also need to confirm that the new container features are recognized.
Check the WSL Version
Checking your WSL version confirms you have the necessary support for containers.
wsl --versionYou should see a version number like 2.9.3.0 or a newer one. If this command displays a list of options and usage instructions, you’re on the right track!
Confirm the New Container Tool
After updating and restarting WSL, you can confirm the new container tool, wslc, is ready by checking its status. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type `wslc –help`. If you see a list of instructions, it means WSL Containers are successfully installed and ready to use.
wslc --helpIf this command displays a list of options and usage instructions, you’re on the right track! WSL Containers are installed and ready for you to use.
Troubleshooting Tip: If the wslc --help command doesn’t work, don’t worry! First, check that the wsl --update --pre-release command finished without any mistakes. Then, try running wsl --shutdown again. Close your Command Prompt or Terminal window completely. Open it again and try wslc --help one more time. Sometimes, restarting your whole computer can also fix problems.
Reference:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wsl/wsl-container?tabs=csharp
Summary
This guide details installing the WSL Containers preview on Windows 11. Users will learn about necessary system updates, how to restart their computer to apply changes, and steps for confirming the WSL Containers preview installation is successful.
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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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