File Extension Database

Open WSL File

WSL files are typically associated with Windows Subsystem for Linux distribution files. These file extensions enable you to install different Linux distributions on Windows 10, adding Linux kernel to your Windows operating system environment.

Possible File Formats for WSL Files

WSL files are unique in that they come as an application package similar to .apk in Android or .exe in Windows. Inside this package, you'll find a Linux filesystem complete with the necessary Linux terminal utilities and applications.

Methods to Open and Use WSL Files

Using Windows PowerShell

One of the easiest ways to use a WSL file is through Windows PowerShell. This method requires you to download your preferred Linux distribution manually, store it to a specific location on your PC, and install it using the Add-AppxPackage cmdlet. Refer to the Microsoft Windows WSL Manual Installation for the step-by-step guide.

Using Windows Subsystem for Linux

Alternatively, you can use the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) command-line tool to install your preferred distribution automatically. This tool can also be used to manage your multiple Linux distributions. The official Microsoft WSL Documentation contains comprehensive guides and tutorials on using WSL.

WSL File Important Information

WSL files are not ordinary files that can be opened using text editors or similar software; instead, they are operational files that are executed within the Windows Subsystem for Linux environment to add Linux distributions and functionality to Windows 10. More information about WSL files and their usage can be obtained from Windows Central and the official Microsoft Windows WSL Overview.

How Can I Open WSL File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open WSL file is to find a WSL file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a WSL file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open WSL file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as WSL file opener then try to search online for "WSL viewer", "application to open WSL file" or "open WSL file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open WSL file

How Can I Open WSL File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a WSL file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a WSL file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with WSL file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as WSL file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open WSL file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open WSL file then try to search for "WSL viewer", "application to open WSL file" or "read WSL file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read WSL file

How Can I Open WSL File on Android

If you downloaded a WSL file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded WSL file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "WSL".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "WSL viewer", "WSL file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open WSL File on iPhone or iPad

To open WSL File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the WSL file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "WSL". This way you can find apps which can open WSL files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "WSL viewer" or "WSL file" online in your favorite search engine.

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