How to Update and Upgrade Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) Distro Packages in Windows 10


The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a new Windows 10 feature that enables you to run native Linux command-line tools directly on Windows, alongside your traditional Windows desktop and modern store apps.

When you have Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) enabled, you can install WSL distro apps from the Microsoft Store, and export and import WSL distros.

Most WSL distros ship with an empty/minimal package catalog. It is strongly recommend to regularly update your package catalog, and upgrading your installed packages using your distro's preferred package manager.

Windows 10 does not automatically update or upgrade your Linux distro(s) packages.

See also: Update & upgrade your distro's packages | Microsoft Docs

This tutorial will show you how to update and upgrade your Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) distro packages in Windows 10.



Here's How:

1. Run the WSL distro (ex: "Ubuntu") you want to update and upgrade its packages.

2. Copy and paste the appropriate command below into the distro's console window, and press Enter. (see screenshot below step 3)

(For Debian, Ubuntu, and Kali Linux)
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

OR

(For "SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12" or "openSUSE Leap 42")
sudo zypper refresh && sudo zypper update

3. When prompted, type your UNIX password for the current UNIX username (ex: "brink") for this WSL distro (ex: "Ubuntu"), and press Enter. (see screenshot below)

Update and Upgrade WSL Distro Packages in Windows 10-update_and_upgrade_wsl_distro-1.jpg

4. If prompted with Do you want to continue, type y and press Enter. (see screenshot below)

Update and Upgrade WSL Distro Packages in Windows 10-update_and_upgrade_wsl_distro-2.jpg

5. When finished updating and upgrading this WSL distro's packages, you can close the console window if you like. (see screenshot below)

It can take a while to finish.

Update and Upgrade WSL Distro Packages in Windows 10-update_and_upgrade_wsl_distro-3.jpg


That's it,
Shawn


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