Windows

How to Uninstall WSL from Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Feb 1, 2022 Updated Apr 15, 2026 3 min read

The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows you to run Linux tools right inside Windows. You might use it for coding or testing software without needing a separate computer.

Why do this? You may want to clear up space or you simply no longer need to run Linux tools on your PC.

What happens when done? Your Linux apps and files will be removed, and the Windows features that support Linux will be turned off.

In Windows, you can install or uninstall WSL easily. Once WSL is installed, you can install your favorite Linux OS inside Windows.

Here are some helpful related posts:

How to Backup Linux OS inside WSL

How to check WSL versions in Windows 11

How to install WordPress on WSL

How to login as root on WSL with Linux OS

How to Uninstall Linux OS on WSL

You can uninstall Linux OS and WSL components from Windows 11 by following these steps:

Open the Start menu and select Settings.
Go to Apps, then Apps & features.
Find your Linux distribution in the list.
Click the 3 dots on the right and select Uninstall.

Apps and features list in Windows 11 settings menu

Wait for the process to finish.

Uninstalling Ubuntu Linux distribution from WSL on Windows 11

Uninstall WSL Components

Next, you should remove the extra components that support WSL. Note: This step requires admin privileges.

In Apps & features, look for Windows Subsystem for Linux WSLg Preview and Windows Subsystem for Linux Update.
Click the 3 dots next to each item and select Uninstall.

Removing Windows Subsystem for Linux components via Apps and features

Disable WSL Features

Finally, you need to turn off the actual WSL feature in Windows. Note: This step requires admin privileges.

Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features > Optional features.
Scroll down and click More Windows features.

Windows 11 optional features menu for managing system components

Find Virtual Machine Platform and Windows Subsystem for Linux in the list.
Uncheck both boxes and click OK.

Disabling Windows Subsystem for Linux features in Windows 11

Windows will remove the files. You will be asked to restart your computer to finish the process.

Summary

Uninstalling WSL is a simple three-part process. First, remove your installed Linux distribution. Second, uninstall the WSL support components from your apps list. Finally, disable the core WSL and Virtual Machine features in the Windows settings menu. Always restart your computer when finished to ensure all files are properly cleaned up.

How do I uninstall WSL from Windows 11?

To uninstall WSL from Windows 11, go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Find your installed Linux distribution, click the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall. Then, remove the WSL components from the Optional features section.

Can I uninstall a specific Linux distribution from WSL?

Yes, you can uninstall a specific Linux distribution from WSL by navigating to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Locate the distribution you want to remove, click the three dots next to it, and choose Uninstall.

What happens when I uninstall WSL?

When you uninstall WSL, all installed Linux distributions and their associated files will be removed from your system. Additionally, any WSL components will also be uninstalled, freeing up system resources.

Is it possible to reinstall WSL after uninstalling it?

Yes, you can reinstall WSL after uninstalling it. Simply follow the installation steps provided by Microsoft to set up WSL again on your Windows 11 machine.

Do I need to restart my computer after uninstalling WSL?

Yes, after uninstalling WSL and its components, you will be prompted to restart your computer. This ensures that all changes are applied and that WSL is completely removed from your system.

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Tags: #Windows 11