Windows Subsystem for Linux
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a compatibility layer developed by Microsoft that enables users to run native Linux command-line tools, utilities, and applications directly on Windows without the overhead of a traditional virtual machine or dual-boot setup. It provides a Linux-compatible kernel interface and supports various Linux distributions, allowing developers to work in a Linux environment while using Windows as their primary operating system.
Developers should learn and use WSL when they need to run Linux-based tools, scripts, or applications on Windows, such as for web development, data science, or system administration tasks that rely on Unix-like environments. It is particularly useful for those who prefer Windows for its user interface and software compatibility but require Linux for development workflows, enabling seamless integration without switching machines or using resource-intensive virtualization.