Microsoft Opens Up Windows Subsystem for Linux, Empowering Developers and Power Users
In a significant move, Microsoft has announced that it will be making the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) open source, a decision that is expected to have a profound impact on the developer and power user communities. This move comes as part of the company’s Build developer conference, where Microsoft has been steadily improving WSL since its introduction in 2016.
A Brief History of WSL
For those who may not be familiar, WSL is a tool that allows developers and power users to run a Linux command line and Linux applications directly within Windows. Since its introduction, WSL has undergone significant improvements, including enhanced performance, easier installation and use, and the addition of features like GPU and audio support.
The Benefits of Open Sourcing WSL
By making WSL open source, Microsoft is giving the community the opportunity to contribute directly to the project, which is expected to lead to even more innovative features and improvements. As Microsoft Senior Software Engineer Pierre Boulay notes, “WSL could never have been what it is today without its community… We can’t wait to see how WSL will evolve now that the community can make direct code contributions to the project.”
What Remains Closed-Source
While WSL is now open source, there are two elements that remain closed-source for now: the lxcore.sys kernel driver used for WSL 1, and the p9rdr.sys and p9np.dll files that handle filesystem redirection from Windows to Linux. Microsoft has not ruled out the possibility of open-sourcing these components in the future, but has not provided a timeline for when this might happen.
Why WSL is a Game-Changer
WSL’s speed, low resource usage, and seamless integration with Windows make it a much more attractive option than traditional virtual machines. With WSL, developers and power users can install and use multiple distributions at once, and switch between them easily. This level of flexibility and convenience is unmatched by traditional virtual machines, which often require more resources and can be more difficult to manage.
Recent Improvements and New Developments
In addition to the open sourcing of WSL, Microsoft has also recently announced that Fedora and Arch Linux are now officially supported WSL distributions, joining Ubuntu as the default. This is a significant development, as it makes it easier for developers and power users to build and use new WSL distributions.
What This Means for You
For developers and power users, the open sourcing of WSL is a major win. It provides a level of transparency and community involvement that was previously lacking, and is expected to lead to even more innovative features and improvements. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, WSL is an essential tool that can help you get the most out of your Windows experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the open sourcing of WSL is a significant development that is expected to have a profound impact on the developer and power user communities. With its speed, flexibility, and seamless integration with Windows, WSL is an essential tool that can help you get the most out of your Windows experience. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, WSL is an essential tool that is sure to continue to evolve and improve in the years to come.