Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is an interoperability bridge that allows you to execute Linux command-line tools, utilities, and applications on a Windows operating system. This bridge means users can do away with dual boots and virtual machines.
Since WSL became available on the Windows store, many developers and users have taken advantage of this compatibility layer. But for some reason, you may want to uninstall WSL on Windows 11.
Unlike many other Windows applications, a single click on your Apps & Features settings page does not uninstall the WSL. This article takes you through the different stages of uninstalling this compatibility layer on Windows 11, including how to remove the Linux distribution, additional components, and disabling the platform.
Let’s get to it!
How do I Uninstall WSL on Windows 11?
1. Uninstall Installed Linux distro(s)
- Click on the start button and select the Settings app.
- On the left pane of the Settings app, select the “Apps” option, then select “Apps & Features” from the right pane.
- Search through the list of applications to find your Linux distribution. Once located, click the ellipsis (3 vertical dots) menu in front of the app and select the “Uninstall” option.
- Once prompted, click “Uninstall” again.
- Repeat the process for all the Linux distributions installed on your computer.
2. Uninstall WSL components
- Like you did when uninstalling the Linux distro(s) in the previous stage, click on the start button and select the Settings app, then on the left pane of the Settings app, select the “Apps” option, then select “Apps & Features” from the right pane.
- Scroll through the list of apps to find “Windows Subsystem for Linux WSLg Preview.” Once located, click the ellipsis (3 vertical dots) menu in front of the app and select the “Uninstall” option.
- When prompted, click the “Uninstall” button again.
- Next, search through the apps again for Windows Subsystem for Linux Update, and uninstall it.
- Click “Uninstall” again when prompted.
3. Uninstall Windows Subsystem for Linux from Windows 11
- Open the Settings app and select “Apps” from the left pane. Then on the right pane, select “Optional features.”
- Scroll down to the “Related settings” section, and select “More Windows Features.”
- Uncheck the “ Virtual Machine Platform” and “Windows Subsystem for Linux” options in the pop-up window.”
- Click ok, and when prompted, click “Restart now.”
These steps may not be your conventional uninstall process, but following them will uninstall WSL on Windows 11.
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