WSL2 Crashing on ARM-based Surface Pro X: A Solution for Ubuntu Users

WSL2 Crashing on ARM-based Surface Pro X: Solution for Ubuntu Users

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a compatibility layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019. WSL2, the latest version, introduces several improvements, such as a real Linux kernel and better file system performance. However, some users have reported crashes when using WSL2 on ARM-based devices like the Surface Pro X, especially after upgrading from WSL1.

Context and Key Concepts

WSL2 runs Linux distributions in lightweight virtual machines (VMs). These VMs use a architecture-specific kernel, which is where the crashes on ARM-based devices might originate. The following sections cover the necessary steps to troubleshoot and solve this issue.

Checking the Kernel Version

First, ensure that you are running a compatible kernel version. Microsoft provides a custom Linux kernel for WSL2, optimized for ARM-based devices. To check the kernel version, open a WSL2 terminal and run:

The output should be similar to:

If the kernel version is not the one provided by Microsoft, you need to update the kernel. Follow the instructions in the official Microsoft documentation.

Disabling Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Platform

Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Platform might interfere with WSL2 on ARM-based devices. To disable these services, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Search for "Turn Windows features on or off" and click on it.
3. Uncheck the boxes for "Hyper-V" and "Virtual Machine Platform" and click "OK".
4. Restart your device.

Reinstalling the Linux Distribution

If the issue persists, try reinstalling the Linux distribution. First, remove the distribution:

Then, reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.

To solve crashes when using WSL2 on ARM-based devices like the Surface Pro X, follow these steps:

1. Check the kernel version and update it if necessary.
2. Disable Hyper-V and Virtual Machine Platform.
3. Reinstall the Linux distribution.

References

• WSL2: Update your Linux kernel version in Windows 10 (Microsoft)
• WSL: Troubleshooting (Microsoft)