1.2 Ways to Run Linux

Linux can be used in several convenient ways—choose the one that suits your goals:

1.2.1 WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

• Best for Windows users: run a real Linux CLI alongside Windows without dual-booting or VMs.
• Easy to install and integrates directly with Windows tools.

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Install WSL (Windows 10/11, PowerShell as Administrator):

wsl --install

This will:

• Enable the necessary Windows features.
• Install the latest Ubuntu distribution by default.

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Choose a Specific Linux Distribution:

List available distributions:

wsl --list --online

Install your choice (example: Ubuntu 22.04):

wsl --install -d Ubuntu-22.04

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Useful WSL Commands:

• Check installed distributions:

  wsl --list --verbose

• Set default distribution:

  wsl --set-default Ubuntu-22.04

• Update WSL:

  wsl --update

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Accessing Files:

• Windows files are under /mnt/c/...
• Your Linux home directory is separate (better for Linux development).

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Official Docs & Resources:

• Microsoft WSL Documentation
• Ubuntu on WSL

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1.2.2 Native Installation via Live USB

• Best performance and native experience.
• Ideal for dual-boot setups or full Linux environments.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Download ISO:

   • Debian Live: https://www.debian.org/CD/live/
   • Fedora Workstation: https://fedoraproject.org/

2. Create Bootable USB using Rufus or balenaEtcher.

3. Boot from USB and either "Try" or "Install".

Be careful when dual-booting—partitioning and backups are essential.

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