Linux has long been a favorite for developers, students, and open-source enthusiasts. Among all the Linux distributions, Ubuntu is one of the most popular because it is beginner-friendly, stable, and well-supported. Traditionally, running Ubuntu meant either replacing Windows or setting up a virtual machine. But with Windows 11, Microsoft has made things much easier through the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). This feature lets you install Ubuntu directly inside Windows without dual-booting or extra software.
In this complete guide, I’ll walk you step by step through the process of downloading and installing Ubuntu on Windows 11.
How to Download and Install Ubuntu on Windows 11 [Step by Step]
The process of installing Ubuntu on Windows 11 is straightforward, but it does require enabling WSL first. Once that’s done, installing Ubuntu is as simple as grabbing it from the Microsoft Store. Let’s go through it step by step.
Step 1: Enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
Before you can install Ubuntu, you need to make sure WSL is enabled. WSL is the backbone that allows Linux distributions like Ubuntu to run on Windows.
- Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type Windows Features.
- Select Turn Windows features on or off.
- In the list, check the boxes for Windows Subsystem for Linux and Virtual Machine Platform.
- Click OK and let Windows apply the changes.
Alternatively, you can use PowerShell as Administrator and run this simple command: wsl –install
This not only enables WSL but also installs the latest version of Ubuntu by default. However, if you want to manually choose your distribution later, enabling WSL first and then installing Ubuntu separately from the Microsoft Store is the best route.
Step 2: Restart Your Computer so that It Can Install the Latest Updates
Once you enable WSL, Windows may need to apply some updates in the background. Restarting your computer ensures that everything installs correctly and prevents errors when you download Ubuntu.
- Save any open files.
- Click Start > Power > Restart.
- After reboot, Windows will finalize the WSL setup.
Skipping this restart might cause installation problems later, so don’t ignore this step.
Step 3: Download and Install Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store
Once you enable WSL and confirm that your device has no pending updates, the next step is to download and install Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store.
- Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
- In the search bar, type Ubuntu.
- You’ll see several versions like Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, or the standard Ubuntu. (If you are new, choose the LTS (Long Term Support) version for stability.)
- Click on the version you want, then hit Get or Install.
Once the download is complete, Ubuntu will appear in your Start menu just like any other application.
Step 4: Set Up Your User Account
After installation, the first time you launch Ubuntu it will need some setup.
- Open Ubuntu from the Start menu.
- The terminal window will appear and run some installation scripts. This may take a few minutes.
- When prompted, create a username (This will be your Linux account name inside Ubuntu.)
- Next, set a password. You’ll use this whenever you run commands that require administrator privileges.
That’s it. You now have a fully working Ubuntu environment running inside Windows 11.
Tips for Downloading Ubuntu on Windows 11
Installing Ubuntu is simple, but here are a few tips to make the process smoother and more effective:
1. Use WSL 2 for Better Performance
By default, WSL may install version 1. To get the full benefits of Linux, switch to WSL 2. Open PowerShell (Admin) and type: wsl –set-default-version 2
WSL 2 offers faster performance, better compatibility with Linux software, and support for more advanced tools like Docker.
2. Choose the Right Ubuntu Version
The Microsoft Store lists multiple versions. If you’re not sure which to pick, go with the latest LTS (Long Term Support) release. These are supported for at least five years and receive regular updates, making them reliable for long-term use.
3. Update Ubuntu After Installation
Once your Ubuntu is set up, update it to make sure you have the latest security patches and software. Open your Ubuntu terminal and run: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
This command refreshes the package list and installs all available updates.
4. Integrate Ubuntu with Windows Tools
One of the best parts of WSL is how it integrates Linux and Windows. You can access Windows files directly from Ubuntu under the /mnt directory. For example, your C: drive will be located at /mnt/c/.
You can also run Windows applications from within Ubuntu by simply typing their name, like notepad.exe. This makes switching between Linux and Windows tools seamless.
6. Allocate Enough Disk Space
Ubuntu and its packages can take up several gigabytes. Before installing, ensure you have sufficient free storage space on your primary drive. A minimum of 10 GB is recommended, but more is preferable if you plan to install numerous software applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much RAM Do I Need to Run Ubuntu on Windows 11?
You don’t need a high-end system to run Ubuntu with WSL on Windows 11. A 4 GB RAM is enough to run Ubuntu smoothly. Of course, having more RAM and a faster processor will make multitasking easier, especially if you plan to use heavy development.
Will installing Ubuntu affect my Windows files?
No, installing Ubuntu through WSL does not change or damage your Windows files.
How do I switch between Windows and Ubuntu on the same computer?
Switching is simple; you can switch between Windows and Ubuntu using the taskbar.
Can I uninstall Ubuntu if I no longer need to use it?
Yes, removing Ubuntu is easy. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, search for Ubuntu, and click Uninstall.
Conclusion
Installing Ubuntu on Windows 11 no longer requires complex setup or partitioning your hard drive. Thanks to the Windows Subsystem for Linux, you can download Ubuntu from the Microsoft Store and start using it within minutes.
By enabling WSL, restarting your PC, installing Ubuntu, and setting up your user account, you now have a fully functional Linux environment at your fingertips. With tips like switching to WSL 2, updating your system, and integrating Windows and Linux tools, you’ll get the most out of your Ubuntu installation.