Windows Subsystem for Linux Goes Open Source: A Game-Changer for Developers
In a groundbreaking move at Microsoft’s Build developer conference, the tech giant unveiled that the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is now open source. This pivotal shift empowers developers to not only access the code but also contribute bug fixes, introduce new features, and actively engage in shaping the future of WSL.
Pierre Boulay of Microsoft expressed immense excitement about this development, highlighting the significant impact the community can have on WSL’s evolution with direct code contributions. The decision to open source WSL marks a strategic shift towards fostering collaboration and innovation within the developer community.
For those unfamiliar, WSL enables users to seamlessly run Linux distributions within the Windows environment, bridging the gap between the two operating systems. The initial iteration of WSL debuted in August 2016, with a significant advancement seen in WSL 2’s launch three years later. WSL 2 notably replaced an emulator with a Linux kernel, enhancing performance and compatibility.
Recent reports from Bleeping Computer revealed that alongside WSL, Microsoft also open-sourced essential components such as the command line tools wsl.exe and wslg.exe, as well as the background service wslservice.exe. However, certain components closely tied to Windows, like Lxcore.sys, P9rdr.sys, and p9np.dll, remain proprietary.
For developers eager to explore the latest developments, the source code for version 2.5.7 is readily available on GitHub. This accessibility not only encourages transparency but also invites a wider range of perspectives and contributions to enhance the functionality and efficiency of WSL.
The decision to make Windows Subsystem for Linux open source marks a significant milestone in Microsoft’s commitment to fostering an open and collaborative development ecosystem. By inviting community participation and engagement, Microsoft is poised to unlock new potentials, drive innovation, and create a more inclusive environment for developers worldwide.