How to Use Bash on Windows 11: A Simple Aussie Guide

Using Bash on Windows 11 sounds pretty straightforward, but honestly, it can be a bit of a pain if you’re not familiar with the steps or run into issues. The usual way is to turn on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), pick a distro, and install it — but sometimes the install just doesn’t want to play ball or WSL refuses to fire up properly. Frustrating, hey? Windows can make a simple task feel like winning the Super Rugby finals.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Bash on Windows 11

This isn’t rocket science, but if you’re new to it or have hit a few snags before, here’s how to get that Bash shell up and running. Mostly easy, but be ready for the odd hiccup — especially if WSL isn’t keen to start right away.

Step 1: Enable WSL

First, you gotta tell Windows to turn on WSL. The easiest way is to open PowerShell as an admin (right-click the icon and select “Run as administrator”). Then, just type wsl --install. Yep, that one command does most of the heavy lifting — it enables WSL, downloads the latest Linux kernel, and installs the default Ubuntu distro.

Why this helps: Because WSL is Windows’ way of running Linux commands without needing a full virtual machine. Turning it on like this is your first step to getting Bash sorted.

When to do it: If WSL isn’t enabled yet or you’re setting up Linux for the first time. Usually after a fresh install or an update.

What to expect: After running that command, Windows might show some messages about downloading files or updating the kernel. Just hang tight and wait. Sometimes it’ll ask you to restart — do it straight away. This command usually automates everything, but on some setups, it might fail silently or hang. If that happens, you can try the manual way below.

Manual alternative: Enable WSL through menus

If the command doesn’t do the trick, jump into Settings > Apps > Optional Features. Scroll down, click on Add a feature, find Windows Subsystem for Linux, tick it, and hit Install. You’ll also want to enable Virtual Machine Platform for WSL 2 to work properly. After that, restart your PC.

Step 2: Reboot Your Computer

Yep, Windows loves making you reboot. After enabling WSL and Virtual Machine Platform, give it a restart. Sometimes, WSL won’t launch or commands won’t work until you do. Don’t skip this bit, mate.

Step 3: Install Your Linux Distro

Back in Windows, head over to the Microsoft Store and pick a Linux distro — Ubuntu’s the most popular, but you can also go for Debian, Kali, or openSUSE. Hit Get or Install. It’s technically just downloading, but it’s also setting up your Linux environment behind the scenes.

Tip: if you’re keen to skip the GUI and do it all via commands, check out Microsoft’s official WSL install guide for more options, including installing other distros.

Step 4: Launch Your Linux Distro

Once installed, find it in the Start menu by searching for “Ubuntu” or whatever distro you went for. Click on it, and a terminal window will pop up — it’s like running Linux straight from your desktop. The first time you open it, it’ll ask you to set up a username and password — pretty standard stuff.

Sometimes, it might ask you to run commands like sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade to get everything up-to-date. Do it, and your Linux will be ready to go.

Step 5: Start Using Bash

Now, in your Linux terminal, you can punch in Bash commands — ls, cd, git, you name it. It’s just like working on a Linux box. Some setups run smoothly, while others might throw up odd issues — like network troubles or command errors. Usually, a reboot or updating WSL fixes these hiccups.

Tips for Using Bash on Windows 11

The wsl --install command makes life easier, setting everything up in one go. But if it doesn’t do the trick, you can always do it manually through Windows Features and the Store.
If one distro gives you grief, try another — Ubuntu’s solid, but Debian or Kali might suit your setup better.
Keep your Linux up-to-date with sudo apt update and sudo apt upgrade. Outdated packages can cause trouble.
To access Windows files from Linux, go to /mnt/c — that’s your C drive right there. Handy for scripts needing Windows files.
If WSL acts up or commands don’t respond, a quick wsl --shutdown in PowerShell or Command Prompt often clears the lot. Easy as.

Q&A

Can I use Bash on Windows 10 too?

Yep, same deal — enable WSL, install your distro. WSL 2 is better, but if you’ve only got WSL 1, it still works alright.

Is WSL 2 a must for Bash on Windows 11?

Ideally, yes, because WSL 2 runs faster and has a full Linux kernel. Most commands and apps run better on WSL 2. Check your version with wsl --list --verbose — if it says WSL 2, you’re all set.

Are there security risks with Bash on Windows?

Nothing major if your system’s kept up to date. But, as always, be careful with scripts from dodgy sources and commands that can mess with your system. Same as Linux — play it safe.

Can I run GUI Linux apps with WSL on Windows 11?

Yes! WSL 2 on Windows 11 now supports GUI apps — they look and run just like normal Windows programs. No hacks needed anymore.

What if I run into errors during setup?

First, make sure your Windows is fully up to speed. Then, run PowerShell as admin and try again. If problems persist, check if virtualization is enabled in your BIOS — Windows can be a bit stubborn about that.

Quick Wrap

Turn on WSL with wsl --install or do it manually via Windows Features.
Reboot to let it all take effect.
Grab a Linux distro from the Microsoft Store.
Launch and set up your Linux environment.
Start typing Bash commands — it’s like Linux, right there in Windows.

Final Word

Getting Bash sorted on Windows 11 isn’t too tricky once you know where the traps are. It’s a total game-changer for playing with Linux tools or scripting without leaving Windows. Expect a few glitches, maybe some command errors, but overall, it’s worth having a go. Just remember, Windows can sometimes throw a spanner in the works, so don’t be surprised if you need to revisit these steps a few times. Fingers crossed, this helps a few mates get their Linux environment going without pulling their hair out.

Since Windows and Linux are more integrated than ever, playing around with WSL can really level up your workflow. Best of luck debugging — sometimes it’s just a matter of ticking a box or running a quick command.