Ubuntu continues to solidify its position as the leading Linux distribution on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), a status bolstered by its designation as the default distro. Canonical has recently unveiled significant changes to the installation process that promise to enhance user experience and streamline operations, particularly in enterprise settings.
New Installation Method
The heart of these changes lies in the adoption of Microsoft’s newly introduced tar-based distribution model. This innovative approach replaces the previous reliance on appx bundles from the Microsoft Store, allowing for a more flexible and efficient installation process. As Canonical notes in their official blog, “We are happy to announce that Ubuntu on Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is now available in Microsoft’s new tar-based distribution architecture.”
This shift is particularly advantageous for developers and system administrators, as it facilitates easier customization and deployment of Ubuntu instances at scale. The tar-based format empowers users to distribute, install, and manage their WSL instances directly from tar files, eliminating the need to depend on the Microsoft Store.
For those equipped with the latest version of WSL 2, the installation process has been simplified. By executing the command wsl –install Ubuntu, users can seamlessly download and install Ubuntu in this new format.
Benefits of the Tar-Based Model
Canonical outlines several key benefits associated with this new distribution architecture:
- Independence from Windows Packaged Apps: Organizations can now self-host and maintain control over which WSL images are accessible, enhancing security and compliance.
- Customization: Developers and administrators have the flexibility to modify images according to their specific requirements, fostering a tailored development environment.
- Simplified Installation: The introduction of tar-based distribution significantly reduces the complexity involved in installing non-Microsoft Store images.
While it has been possible to install WSL images from outside the Microsoft Store for some time, the process often required technical expertise. The new tar-based distribution model streamlines this process, making it more accessible to a broader audience.
For those eager to explore this new installation method, it is readily available. Users can download the tar-based .wsl file from Ubuntu and install it with a simple double-click, further simplifying the onboarding process.
As the landscape of WSL evolves, Ubuntu is set to be joined by other prominent distributions such as Fedora and Arch Linux, both of which have announced plans to provide official images. This expansion indicates a promising future for WSL, catering to a diverse range of developer needs and preferences.
