Windows Subsystem for Linux Optional Component Is Not Enabled

Easily enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

Usually, when you try to run any software, service, or app that requires theLinux environment, you may get an error.

In most cases, if you install theUbuntu app from the Microsoft Storeand open it, this problem will appear. When it occurs, you get the following message:The Windows Subsystem for Linux optional component is not enabled. Please enable it and try again.

It also may show an error code 0x8007019e. But don’t worry, you can easily fix this problem if you take the proper steps.

Does the Windows Subsystem for Linux slow down a PC?

To make your development work much more pleasant, you may enable WSL. It does not hurtWindows performance.

Anyservices in the backgroundtake a few computing resources. The WSL is not different. However, according to the users, it doesn’t slow down the PC.

We have tested it by ourselves. Our research also has found that modern computers can easily handle Windows Subsystem for Linux without negatively affecting performance.

Moreover, it can be an essential feature for some users. So, you may need to turn it on, particularly when you face the error mentioned in this article.

How do I enable Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows?

If you want to enable WSL on your PC, you can easily do it. But, before that, we suggest you do the following things:

Now, you can follow the methods mentioned below to enable Windows Subsystem for Linux.

1. Install the optional feature

Alternatively, you also can search for theoptionalfeatureson theStart Menuto find and open the Windows Features window. It can be necessary if you don’t find the exact options shown in the above steps.

After enabling the WSL, you can try to open the Ubuntu terminal or any other app or service that was showing the error. Hopefully, you will not see the same again.

2. Use the PowerShell command

Now, verify if it has solved the problem or not. If PowerShell can successfully enable this optional feature, you can use the Ubuntu terminal or any other app that requires WSL without any error.

3. Enable Developer Mode

For more detailed steps, learnhow to enable Windows 11 Developer Mode.If the Developer Mode is a requirement, try to enable the latest WSL again and see if it works.

This article has explained how to fix Windows Subsystem for Linux is not enabled. If you have any opinions or suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comments box.

Windows Subsystem for Linux Optional Component Is Not Enabled#

Does the Windows Subsystem for Linux slow down a PC?#

How do I enable Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows?#

1. Install the optional feature#

2. Use the PowerShell command#

3. Enable Developer Mode#