Do you want to use Fedora Linux on your Windows system without traditional virtual machines or dual booting? Well, you're in luck! Fedora Linux is now an official distribution available for the Windows Subsystem for Linux, or WSL for short. This makes it much easier for Windows users to try Fedora Linux within Windows.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Fedora Project and supported by Microsoft, aims to provide a seamless and productive experience for developers and users who wish to leverage the strengths of both Windows and Fedora.
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What is WSL?
WSL allows you to run Linux right inside your Windows computer. It lets you use Linux command-line tools, applications, and manage files in a Linux environment, all without leaving Windows.
It's especially popular with developers who need the power of Linux alongside their Windows work.
The latest version, WSL 2, is the default when you install Linux distributions. WSL 2 is better than the first version because it makes working with files faster and understands more Linux commands.
Fedora Linux Joins WSL Distros
Before now, using Fedora on WSL wasn't officially supported in the same way. You might have used a basic version, but it didn't have everything you needed and wasn't properly documented for WSL.
Now, with the official Fedora Linux image for WSL:
- It's easier to get: Fedora has chosen to distribute its WSL version using a file type called a tarball, often ending in
.wslfor newer Windows versions. This means you can often install it just by double-clicking the file if you have a recent version of WSL (version 2.4.4 or newer). For older versions, please consult the WSL official documentation. - Simple first-time setup: The official Fedora image comes with a special script that runs the first time you open it. This script will help you set up a user account easily, so you can get started quickly.
- Full Fedora experience: You get access to Fedora's wide range of software using its package manager called
dnf. This lets you install lots of tools and programs. Fedora is known for having recent versions of software development tools. - Work with both Windows and Linux: WSL lets you use command-line tools and even run graphical apps from both Windows and Linux side-by-side. There's even work happening to make graphical apps run even better with your computer's hardware.
This change, targeted for Fedora Linux 42, means that Windows users who want to try out Fedora or need its specific tools now have a smooth and supported way to do so.
Distribution Method and User Experience
Fedora has opted to distribute its WSL image primarily via a tarball, rather than through the Windows Store. This decision aligns with Fedora's historical comfort levels regarding store policies and developer agreements.
Recent improvements in WSL (version 2.4.4+) have significantly enhanced the user experience for tarball installations, including click-to-install support via the ".wsl" file extension and integrated first-time setup scripts and icons.
How to Get Fedora on WSL
For most users with WSL version 2.4.4 or newer, getting Fedora is simple:
Open your Windows command line (like Command Prompt or PowerShell).
Type and run the command:
wsl --install FedoraLinux-42
Once installed, you can start it by typing:
wsl -d FedoraLinux-42
Follow the on-screen steps to create your user account.
By default, your user does not have a password and is part of the wheel group, which allows you to use sudo for elevated commands.
That's it! You'll be running Fedora Linux on your Windows machine.
If you have an older version of WSL, there's a slightly more manual process involving importing a tarball file, but it is outdated now. WSL2 is the latest and default way to try Linux under Windows OS!
Thank You, Fedora People
This move was made possible by hard work from people in the Fedora Project, including Jeremy Cline, David Duncan, Neal Gompa, and Patrick Lang, with support from Microsoft.
Fedora wants your help to make the WSL experience even better. If you have questions, ideas, or find something that doesn't work right, you're encouraged to report bugs and get involved with the Fedora Project community.
Running Fedora Linux on Windows via WSL is now official and easier than ever! Give it a try and explore Fedora right from your Windows machine!
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