Set Default Wsl

5 min read Oct 12, 2024

Setting the Default Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) Distribution

The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a powerful tool for developers and users alike. It allows you to run Linux distributions directly within Windows, offering seamless access to a wealth of Linux applications and tools. However, if you have multiple WSL distributions installed, you might find yourself needing to manually select the distribution you want to use each time. Luckily, you can easily set a default WSL distribution, making your workflow smoother and more efficient.

Why Set a Default WSL Distribution?

Setting a default WSL distribution eliminates the need to choose your desired distribution manually each time you launch a WSL terminal. This saves you time and streamlines your development process, especially if you primarily use a single distribution for your work.

How to Set the Default WSL Distribution

There are two primary methods to set your preferred WSL distribution as the default:

1. Using the wsl --set-default Command:

This method utilizes the WSL command line interface. Here's how to do it:

Open a Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt.
Run the following command, replacing <DistributionName> with the name of the distribution you wish to set as default:
```
wsl --set-default 
```
For example, to set Ubuntu-22.04 as the default distribution:
```
wsl --set-default Ubuntu-22.04
```

2. Using the Windows Settings App:

This method offers a more visual and user-friendly approach:

Open the Windows Settings app (Windows Key + I).
Navigate to "Apps" > "Apps & features."
Click on "Optional features" in the left sidebar.
Select "Windows Subsystem for Linux" and then click on "Manage."
Select the desired distribution from the list and click on "Set as Default."

Important Notes:

Make sure your desired distribution is installed and running before attempting to set it as default.
If you have multiple distributions installed, you can easily switch between them using the wsl --list --verbose command to view available distributions and then using wsl --set-default <DistributionName> to set the desired one.

Verifying the Default Distribution

After setting your default distribution, you can verify it using the following methods:

Using the wsl -l -v Command:

Run the wsl -l -v command in a PowerShell or Command Prompt window. The output will list all installed WSL distributions, with the default distribution marked with a "Default" flag.
Checking the Windows Settings App:

Go back to "Apps" > "Apps & features" > "Optional features" > "Windows Subsystem for Linux" > "Manage." The currently set default distribution will be highlighted.

Conclusion

Setting a default WSL distribution significantly improves your workflow by eliminating the need to manually select your desired distribution each time. Both methods described above offer a simple and efficient way to achieve this, allowing you to focus on your work without unnecessary distractions. Choose the method that best suits your preferences and enjoy a streamlined WSL experience!