wsl

wsl [options] [command]

--install
    Installs WSL with the default distribution. May require reboot.

--install DistributionName
    Installs the specified distribution. Requires --distribution option

--list
    Lists installed WSL distributions.

--list --online
    Lists available distributions for installation.

--set-default DistributionName
    Sets the default WSL distribution.

--unregister DistributionName
    Unregisters the specified distribution.

--import DistributionName InstallLocation FileName
    Imports a distribution from a tarball.

--export DistributionName FileName
    Exports a distribution to a tarball.

--shutdown
    Shuts down all running WSL distributions.

--exec command
    Executes the specified command in the default distribution.

-d, --distribution DistributionName
    Refers to the distribution specified

--user UserName
    Runs a command as the specified user.

The `wsl` command is a powerful tool for managing and interacting with Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) distributions. It provides functionality to list installed distributions, set a default distribution, run commands within a specific distribution, import/export distributions, and perform other administrative tasks.

This command allows users to seamlessly integrate Linux environments into their Windows workflow. It can be used to install different distros like Ubuntu, Debian, Kali, and manage their configurations independently. It provides a bridge between the Windows and Linux ecosystems, allowing developers to use their preferred tools and environments.

By leveraging the `wsl` command, you can streamline your development processes, test cross-platform applications, and gain access to a wide range of Linux-specific utilities without leaving the comfort of your Windows desktop.

The availability of certain options and distributions may depend on the version of Windows and WSL installed. Some operations may require administrator privileges.

WSL shares the Windows network interface by default. Accessing network services running within WSL from Windows and vice versa typically requires careful configuration, including firewall rules and port forwarding.

The Windows file system is accessible from within WSL under `/mnt/c`, `/mnt/d`, etc. Conversely, the WSL file system can be accessed from Windows via `\\wsl$\DistributionName`.

WSL was first introduced with Windows 10 and has evolved significantly over time. The `wsl` command provides a user-friendly interface for managing WSL instances. WSL 2 introduced a true Linux kernel, improving performance and compatibility.

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