Microsoft releases its Linux kernel for WSL2
Summary
Microsoft publishes the source code, configuration and build notes of the customised WSL2 kernel, which runs Linux system calls in a lightweight VM. The repository appeared in 2019. The kernel is based on official stable Linux versions.
Ideas
- WSL2 uses a real Linux kernel instead of translating system calls.
- A lean virtual machine isolates the kernel from the Windows host.
- Microsoft keeps its patches as close as possible to stable upstream versions.
- The repository documents reproducible kernel builds.
Insights
- A native kernel increases compatibility and moves the boundary towards virtualisation.
- Published source code makes changes reviewable, but not automatically maintenance-free.
- Short update paths are security-critical for embedded operating system components.
Facts
- WSL2 is updated as a Windows component.
Recommendations
- Compare Microsoft's configuration with the kernel features you need.
- Keep Linux projects in the WSL file system for best performance.
References
Links to the original source and the Web Archive open in a new tab.