Running Ubuntu on Windows 10 might sound tricky, but it’s actually pretty straightforward thanks to a feature called Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). You can have both operating systems running on your PC, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds. This guide will walk you through each step to get Ubuntu up and running on your Windows 10 machine.
How to Run Ubuntu on Windows 10
This guide will help you install Ubuntu on your Windows 10 machine using WSL, a feature that allows you to run a Linux file system, along with Linux command-line tools and GUI apps, directly on Windows.
Step 1: Enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
First, you need to enable WSL on your computer.
To do this, open PowerShell as an Administrator and type: wsl --install
.
This command installs WSL and sets up your system to run Linux distributions like Ubuntu.
Step 2: Restart Your Computer
Next, restart your computer to ensure that all changes take effect.
After restarting, your system will have the WSL feature enabled, ready to install a Linux distribution.
Step 3: Install Ubuntu from Microsoft Store
Open the Microsoft Store app, search for "Ubuntu," and click "Install."
This step will download and install the Ubuntu distribution, allowing you to run it alongside Windows.
Step 4: Set Up Ubuntu
Once installed, open the Ubuntu app and follow the on-screen prompts to set up your username and password.
This setup process configures your Ubuntu environment and creates a user profile for you.
Step 5: Start Using Ubuntu
After the initial setup, you can start using Ubuntu by opening the app from the Start menu.
From here, you can run Linux commands, install software, and use your Ubuntu environment just like you would on a dedicated Linux machine.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have a fully functional Ubuntu environment running on your Windows 10 machine. You can use it for development, testing, or just exploring the Linux ecosystem without needing a separate computer or dual-boot setup.
Tips for Running Ubuntu on Windows 10
- Make sure to keep your Windows and Ubuntu updated to avoid compatibility issues.
- You can access your Windows files from Ubuntu by navigating to the
/mnt/c
directory. - Customize your Ubuntu environment with the
apt-get install
command to add software and tools. - Use the
wsl --shutdown
command to reset your WSL instance if you encounter any issues. - Check out online forums and communities for additional help and tips on using WSL effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run GUI applications on WSL?
Yes, with WSL 2, you can run GUI applications, but you might need an X server like Xming.
Is it safe to enable WSL?
Yes, enabling WSL is safe. It does not compromise the security of your Windows system.
Can I use other Linux distributions with WSL?
Yes, you can install multiple Linux distributions from the Microsoft Store.
Do I need an internet connection to use Ubuntu on WSL?
You need an internet connection for the initial download and updates, but basic operations do not require it.
How do I uninstall Ubuntu on WSL?
You can uninstall Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store or by using the wsl --unregister
command in PowerShell.
Summary of Steps
- Enable WSL with
wsl --install
. - Restart your computer.
- Install Ubuntu from Microsoft Store.
- Set up Ubuntu with a username and password.
- Start using Ubuntu.
Conclusion
Running Ubuntu on Windows 10 is a lot easier than it sounds. Thanks to WSL, you can enjoy the benefits of both operating systems on a single machine without complex setups or dual-booting. This guide walked you through enabling WSL, installing Ubuntu, and getting started with your new Linux environment. Remember to keep both your Windows OS and Ubuntu up-to-date to avoid any hiccups down the line.
Interested in diving deeper? There are plenty of resources and communities online where you can learn more about advanced configurations and optimizations for your WSL setup. Now, you’re all set to explore, develop, and make the most out of running Ubuntu on Windows 10.

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.