How to Use the Linux Terminal on Windows 11

Even though the GUI is the most common interface that enables better interaction between users and companies, few techies love to load Linux onto their Windows PCs. The simple reason is Linux’s instant response to any command. Because Linux is a core contributor to the computer industry, its unique feature provides faster response even than the latest GUI. Therefore, those users who want to use Linux Terminal on their Windows PC can do so.

However, it is imperative that you can run Linux commands on Windows. However, before that, you must make some settings to enable it. Additionally, you need a proper way to install your desired Linux distribution. Although Microsoft Support provides instructions on how to install the Windows subsystem for Linux, more is needed. To address this deviation, we have prepared a guide that explains everything you need to know.

How to Use the Linux Terminal on Windows 11

Using terminals outside of Windows requires some preparation. Before we begin, it is essential to note that the only way to run Linux terminals on Windows is through the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). With Windows 11, WSL 2.0 was introduced, which allows you to run Linux applications alongside Windows.

CPU virtualization is an essential requirement for emulating another operating system on Windows. It allows a single CPU to be divided into multiple sections. To check whether it is enabled, open your Windows 11 Task Manager, go to Performance, and ensure the virtualization feature is on. If it is not enabled, enter the BIOS utility (press ESC at start-up, then press F10), go to Advanced Mode, select Intel VMX/SVM, enable them, save and exit, and restart the PC. Once you have met this requirement, you can install WSL and a Linux distribution.

Note: If your PC comes with Windows 11, the WSL feature will be enabled by default.

1. Open the Start menu and search for Windows Features.
2. Click on the Windows Features Turn Off and On panel.
3. On the next screen, select the Windows Subsystem for Linux and click OK.
4. Click on Restart now to apply the changes.
5. Download the WSL kernel package from here.
6. Run the .msi installer you downloaded above and install it.
7. Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command “dism.exe /online /enable-feature /feature name: Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart.”
8. Download the Windows Subsystem for Linux from the Microsoft Store.
9. Under the Microsoft Store, search for Linux in the search bar.
10. Install your desired Linux distribution from there (we recommend Ubuntu).
11. Once it is finished, you are ready to use the Linux Terminal on Windows 11.

After that, open the Linux distribution and use the command you want. Other options for installing a Linux Terminal are available, but we found this to be the most straightforward. We hope you can boot up a Linux terminal on your Windows 11 PC. As mentioned above, Linux Terminal only works when you have enabled the required settings. This is everything you need to know about using the Linux kernel on Windows 11. If you have questions, feel free to ask them below.

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