WSL
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What is WSL?
WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) runs a real Linux distribution such as Ubuntu inside Windows, without dual-booting or managing a separate virtual machine.
A compatibility layer in Windows that allows developers to run a genuine Linux environment natively, without the overhead of traditional dual-booting or bulky virtual machines.
WSL bridges the gap between Windows and Linux. It runs a real Linux kernel directly on Windows 10 and 11. Developers can use standard Linux command-line tools (like Bash, grep, and Docker) to build and test software exactly as it will run on production servers, while still using Windows IDEs and native apps seamlessly.
How it relates to Orbit
Orbit’s Linux project route executes files, commands, agents, servers, and builds inside WSL while the dashboard remains on Windows. See Linux Projects (WSL) for details.
When you would use it
You use WSL when you own a Windows machine but need the standard Unix tools and Linux compatibility required for modern web and backend development.
Common operations
- Running native Linux Docker containers directly on a Windows laptop.
- Writing and testing Bash deployment scripts without leaving the Windows OS.
Frequently asked questions
How do I install Ubuntu on WSL?
From an elevated Windows terminal, run wsl --install -d Ubuntu-24.04, then restart Windows.
Can Orbit run projects inside WSL?
Yes. Orbit can route a project’s files, commands, agents, servers and builds into Ubuntu under WSL while the dashboard stays on Windows; the project must already live inside Ubuntu. See Linux Projects (WSL).