Canonical announces support for Ubuntu on Windows Subsystem for Linux 2

May 6, 2019: Canonical today announces full support for Ubuntu on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) 2.

“Extending enterprise support for Ubuntu from Azure to Windows workstations and servers creates a seamless operating environment for Ubuntu in the Microsoft environment,” said Stephan Fabel, Director of Product at Canonical. “Collaboration with Microsoft enables us to certify Ubuntu on WSL, including Docker containers, Kubernetes, and snaps”.

WSL 2 introduces lightweight virtualisation and a Linux kernel which provides the full set of capabilities needed for enterprise certification and support. These changes align Ubuntu on WSL with the Azure and AzureStack capabilities, greatly reducing friction for workflows which start on the Windows workstation and finish on Azure.

“Performance optimisation of Ubuntu in Azure and WSL ensures total efficiency for enterprises developing new Linux applications on Microsoft platforms,” said Kiko Reis, VP Cloud at Canonical. “Our commitment to security updates for the full stack on any cloud or virtualisation extends naturally to this new WSL environment.”

Ubuntu on WSL will include integrated Windows file sharing capabilities to simplify the developer experience with Windows-based IDEs and version control systems for Linux-built and operated apps.  In addition, the integration of Active Directory and other Windows services with Ubuntu will simplify operations at scale in Microsoft environments.

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About Canonical

Canonical is the publisher of Ubuntu, the OS for most public cloud workloads as well as the emerging categories of smart gateways, self-driving cars and advanced robots. Canonical provides enterprise security, support and services to commercial users of Ubuntu. Established in 2004, Canonical is a privately held company.