### SummaryMicrosoft has announced the open-source release of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), marking a significant milestone in its development journey. This initiative allows developers to access WSL’s code on GitHub, fostering community contributions and enhancing its features. With a rich history since its inception in 2016, WSL has evolved through community support and now aims to accelerate its growth by embracing open-source collaboration. in HTML
The Windows Subsystem for Linux Goes Open Source!
Exciting news for developers and Linux enthusiasts! The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is now officially open source. This announcement came from Pierre Boulay on the Windows Developer Blog, marking a significant milestone in WSL’s journey.
What’s New in WSL?
With this open-source release, the code powering WSL is now available on GitHub. Developers can download, build from source, and contribute to WSL’s ongoing development. This is a game-changer for those who want to add new features or fixes.
“We can’t wait to see how WSL will evolve now that the community can make direct code contributions to the project.”
Major Updates and Features
WSL consists of several components, including command line executables like wsl.exe and wslconfig.exe. These components allow users to interact seamlessly with both Windows and Linux environments. WSL’s architecture also includes:
- The WSL service to start the WSL virtual machine and manage distributions.
- Linux init and daemon processes for functionality.
- File sharing capabilities with the plan9 server implementation.
Previously, WSL components like microsoft/wslg and microsoft/WSL2-Linux-Kernel were already open-sourced. However, some components, like Lxcore.sys, remain closed for now.
Why Open Source Now?
WSL was first introduced at Microsoft Build in 2016. Initially, it supported ELF executables through a pico process provider. Over time, WSL evolved into WSL 2, which relies on the Linux kernel for optimal compatibility. This transition was crucial for enhancing features like GPU support and systemd.
By separating WSL from the Windows codebase in 2021, Microsoft aimed to keep pace with user demands and feature requests. The latest version, WSL 5.7, showcases continuous improvements and community-driven development.
Join the WSL Community!
WSL has thrived thanks to a vibrant community that has contributed significantly over the years. Now, with open-source access, the potential for innovation is limitless. Interested in contributing? Head over to microsoft/WSL to learn more!
“WSL could never have been what it is today without its community.”
With this open-source release, the future of WSL looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned for more updates!
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