Microsoft has announced the release of Windows Server 2022 build 20348.740. Earlier this week, Microsoft program manager Craig Loew confirmed on GitHub that the latest update now allows users to run WSL 2-based Linux distributions in Windows Server 2022.
“Hi folks, we’ve added support for WSL 2 distros on Windows Server 2022! This is available now by installing KB5014021. Currently, this update is only available to researchers, and next month, it will be deployed by default. Going forward, WSL will be supported on both Windows Servers and Windows Desktop SKUs,” said Craig Loewen on GitHub.
Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2) debuted on Windows 10 with the May 2020 Update. Meanwhile, WSL 2 support was also available to users receiving updates Windows Server Semi-Annual Channel (SAC).
With the release of Windows Server 2022, Microsoft dropped support for its Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) updates and moved to a new model with Windows Server LTSC releases. The new release included several new features such as security enhancements, DNS over HTTPS support, new Azure features, and more. However, it lacked support for the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2.
Microsoft finally adds support for WSL 2 on Windows Server 2022
The latest Windows Server 2022 update (build 20348.740) brings significant performance improvements with WSL version 2. On top of that, WSL 2 comes with a full Linux kernel that allows full system call compatibility as well as the ability to run a Linux kernel in a lightweight virtual machine.
If you want to run WSL 2 Linux distros on Windows Server 2022, you can install the latest cumulative update by going to Settings >> Windows Update and clicking on the Check for updates button.
Meanwhile, the new version of Windows Server is also available for download on the Microsoft Update catalog. As usual, those of you who prefer to skip this optional update will receive these improvements with next month’s Patch Tuesday update.
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