Issues with WSL File Access Sidebar in File Explorer After Windows Update

Question

Hello Microsoft Support Team,

I am experiencing an issue with the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) after performing a recent Windows update (some days ago). Previously, when I clicked on the Linux icon in the left sidebar of File Explorer, I could access my WSL distributions (e.g., Ubuntu and docker) directly from the sidebar. However, after updating Windows, these WSL distributions no longer appear in the File Explorer sidebar.

Windows 11 Home

Version 24H2

Answer 1

After updating to Windows 11 24H2, I encountered the same issue as you. I read https://github.com/microsoft/WSL/issues/10872 and found the simplest solution: go to https://github.com/microsoft/WSL/releases/tag/2.4.8, download the corresponding installation package, install it, and then restart Explorer.

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I found an even simpler solution: just run wsl --update in PowerShell. This eliminates the need to manually download and install WSL.

Answer 2

Some things regarding WSL2 + File Explorer and Win 11 Version 24H2 have changed.

To get back the Linux tab in File Explorer, press Start and search + open the 'WSL' system app. Once you're in the terminal, reboot your Windows. Linux tab will be back in the File Explorer.

Answer 3

Hi! I found a workaround to get rid of the issue:

1. Enter "\\wsl$" (withour quotes) in explorer
2. It will open all your wsl distros
3. 
4. Map the distro as a network drive
   1. Right Click in the distro name and map it as a network drive
   2. PS: It seems that file transfers now are too much slower than previously.