How to Set Up a Linux GUI on WSL2 in Windows 10

WSL2 (Windows Subsystem for Linux 2) allows you to run Linux commands and tools on Windows effortlessly. However, to use a full graphical user interface (GUI), additional setup is required. This guide will walk you through the steps to set up a Linux GUI on WSL2 in Windows 10.

Step 1: Update and Configure WSL2

Before installing a GUI, make sure WSL is updated to the latest version:

  1. Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the following command: 
    wsl --update
  2. Check which version of WSL you have installed by running: 
    wsl -l -v
  3. Ensure WSL2 is the default version. If WSL1 is set as default, switch to WSL2 with this command: 
    wsl --set-default-version 2

Step 2: Install a Linux Distribution

To work with a GUI, you'll need a Linux distribution. Install Ubuntu or any other preferred distribution from the Microsoft Store.

  1. Open the Microsoft Store and search for the Linux distribution of your choice, such as Ubuntu.
  2. Click Install and follow the instructions.

Step 3: Install an X Server for Windows

Since WSL2 doesn't have native GUI support, you'll need to install an X server to display Linux windows on Windows. A popular choice is VcXsrv.

  1. Download and install VcXsrv.
  2. Launch the program, select Multiple Windows, and check Disable Access Control for easier setup.

Step 4: Set the DISPLAY Variable

For Linux applications to interact with the X server, you need to set the DISPLAY environment variable:

  1. Open your Linux distribution in WSL2 and enter: 
    echo "export DISPLAY=$(grep -oP '(?<=nameserver ).*' /etc/resolv.conf):0.0" >> ~/.bashrc
  2. Apply the changes with: 
    source ~/.bashrc

Step 5: Install a Desktop Environment

With the environment ready, install a desktop environment. Lightweight options include LXDE or Xfce:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install xfce4

Once installed, launch the desktop environment with:

startxfce4

Step 6: Running GUI Applications

After setting up the X server and desktop environment, you can run any Linux GUI application via WSL2. For example, try launching a web browser or text editor:

sudo apt install firefox
firefox