Arch Linux Comes To Microsoft Store: Here’s How To Install It

When Microsoft initially introduced the Windows Subsystem for Linux to help developers run Linux tools on Windows 10 without using workarounds like dual-booting or virtualization, one had to install it via terminal. Later, Microsoft and distro vendors made it easier to install open source operating systems like Ubuntu, Fedora, openSUSE and Kali Linux via Microsoft Store.

Following the recent announcement that Windows 10 will now ship with a custom Linux kernel for the first time, another popular Linux distro now available on Microsoft Store. Arch Linux can now be downloaded from the Store just like any other Windows application and you don’t need to run any commands.

However, unlike other distros that are available on Store, Arch Linux isn’t recommended for a Linux beginner as it has a comparatively steeper learning curve. However, as it’s lightweight and doesn’t feature any unnecessary software, it’s surely worth the effort.

How to install Arch Linux on Windows?

You just need to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux setting in Windows 10. To do so, search for Windows Features in the taskbar and check the box that says Windows Subsystem for Linux.

If you love the Windows terminal, there’s a way to enable the feature via PowerShell as well. Simply run the following command:

Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux

Now simply follow this link or search for Arch Linux on Windows Store and click on the Get button to start and download process.

Please note that just like other distros, Windows 10 S doesn’t support running Arch Linux.

Also Read: Endless Launches Linux Games For Kids To Teach Them Coding