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Windows Subsystem for Linux GUI (github.com)

618 points by anchpop · 1838 days ago · 457 comments on HN

Article summary

The Windows Subsystem for Linux GUI (WSLg) enables support for running Linux GUI applications on Windows in a fully integrated desktop experience. WSLg provides an integrated experience for developers, scientists, and enthusiasts who need to run Windows and Linux applications side by side. The system uses a combination of technologies, including Weston, FreeRDP, and PulseAudio, to enable seamless interaction between Linux GUI applications and the Windows desktop. WSLg is available on both Windows 11 and Windows 10, with some limitations on older systems.

Main themes

  • WSLg and Linux GUI support
  • Windows 11 compatibility and hardware requirements
  • Wine and WSL comparison
  • Microsoft update policies and user frustration
  • Hardware obsolescence and upgrade encouragement
  • Alternative projects and use cases

What commenters say

  • Some commenters are concerned that WSLg will only be available on Windows 11, which may not be compatible with older hardware.
  • Others are excited about the potential for WSLg to improve GUI support in Linux and push the adoption of Wayland.
  • There is disagreement about whether Wine is similar to WSL1 or WSL2, with some arguing that Wine re-implements the Windows API in Linux userland, while others point out that WSL2 actually reimplements the Linux API inside the NT kernel.
  • Some commenters are frustrated with Microsoft's decision to block security updates for manually installed Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, while others see it as a way for Microsoft to encourage users to upgrade to newer systems.
  • The discussion also touches on the topic of Windows update policies, with some commenters expressing frustration with the annual updates that can mess with settings and try to force a Microsoft account on users.
  • Others are concerned about the potential for Microsoft to use WSLg as a way to phase out older hardware and encourage users to buy new PCs.
  • Some commenters are interested in the potential for WSLg to enable new use cases, such as running Windows applications on Linux, and are exploring alternative projects that can achieve similar functionality.