How to Do WSL 2 Linux Install Troubleshooting

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) enables Windows users to run a Linux environment directly on their Windows machines. It allows developers to access Linux tools and utilities without the need for a separate Linux installation. However, if you’re installing it the first time through Microsoft Documentation you might have encountered an error, specifically error code `0x80370114` when trying to install any Linux distribution using WSL 2. This article aims to provide a solution to this issue and help users overcome the error.

Why Did You Encounter This Error

It often indicates an issue with the Virtual Machine Platform or Hyper-V, when the WSL is unable to start the Virtual Machine. When encountered, it prevents the successful installation of a Linux distribution on the Windows operating system. This error is commonly caused by the Windows subsystem feature and the Virtual Machine Platform being disabled.

Troubleshooting and Fixing The Error 0x80370114

To fix this error and install a Linux distribution using WSL 2, follow the steps below.

Enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) feature:

Open a PowerShell terminal as an administrator (`Ctrl + Shift + Enter`) and run the following command:

“`

dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart

“`

This command enables the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature on your system.

Enable the Virtual Machine Platform

In the same PowerShell terminal, run the following command:

“`

dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart

“`

This command enables the Virtual Machine Platform in the Windows operating system.

Alternatively, you can enable these features using the Windows GUI Features menu.

Follow these steps:

1. Press the `Start` button on your keyboard and search for `Windows Features`

2. Open the “Turn Windows features on or off” option.

Locate and tick mark the following features

1. Windows Subsystem for Linux.
2. Virtual Machine Platform.

Verifying the Fix

After following the steps to fix the error, it’s essential to verify if the WSL 2 installation is successful.

• Open a PowerShell terminal and enter the command: `wsl –list`.

   

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