On Windows 11, the usual way to get a Bash environment is Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). It installs a Linux distribution that can run Bash alongside Windows without requiring a traditional dual-boot setup.
Install WSL and Bash
- Right-click Start and open Terminal (Admin).
- Run
wsl --install. - Restart the computer if Windows asks you to.
- Open the installed Linux distribution from Start.
- Create the Linux username and password requested during first-time setup.
The default distribution can vary, and you can list available distributions with wsl --list --online. A specific distribution can be requested with the supported WSL install options.
Bash in WSL is not the same as Command Prompt
Commands run inside the Linux environment can behave differently from Windows commands and use Linux paths and permissions. Keep Windows and Linux instructions distinct, especially when a command modifies or deletes files.
If WSL installation is blocked on a managed computer, check with the organization’s administrator because virtualization and optional Windows components may be controlled by policy.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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