The Difference Between WSL and Virtual Machine [Compared]

When considering options for running Linux or other operating systems on a Windows machine, there are two popular solutions, the Windows Linux Subsystem (WSL) and Virtual Machines (VMs). Both solutions allow users to run different operating systems while running Windows but use different implementation methods. This article aims to compare the difference between WSL and virtual machine to help you determine which solution is best suited for your specific requirements.

What is Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a Windows feature that allows users to run native Linux environments directly on Windows without needing a dual-boot or virtual machine.WSL enables running Windows applications alongside a full Linux, including command line tools and software, enabling a seamless and efficient Windows and Linux experience.

There are two versions of WSL:

👉WSL 1: It is the translation layer for calls, enabling the conversion of Linux system calls to Windows.

👉WSL 2: Introduces a full Linux kernel running in a lightweight virtual machine, providing better compatibility and performance, it relies on a virtualized Linux kernel.

Advantages and Disadvantages of WSL

✔Advantages:

1. Lightweight and Efficient

WSL (especially WSL 2) uses fewer resources than traditional virtual machines. It enables running Linux environments without a full virtual OS, making it ideal for systems with limited resources or those needing to maintain performance while using Linux tools.

2. Seamless integration with Windows

WSL allows you to run Linux tools from the Windows command line and vice versa, making it simple to use both environments together. Access files easily and run Linux commands without switching contexts.

3. Easy setup

Setting up WSL on Windows 10/11 is straightforward. With a few commands, you can enable WSL and install distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora without complex configurations.

❌Disadvantages:

1. Limited Isolation

WSL is less secure than a virtual machine since it runs within Windows. Issues in WSL can affect the Windows environment, but this risk is usually minimal.

2. Limited support for some Linux software

While WSL 2 has improved compatibility, certain Linux software might not work properly, particularly those needing low-level hardware access or specific drivers. Full hardware access, like GPU applications, can still be problematic.

3. No complete Linux desktop environment

WSLg allows running Linux applications in a window, but a full Linux desktop environment isn't possible in WSL. For emulating an entire Linux desktop, using a virtual machine is recommended.

What is Virtual Machine (VM)

A virtual machine (VM) is a software-based simulation of a physical computer that can run an entire operating system using virtualization software like VMware, VirtualBox, or Hyper-V. A hypervisor allocates physical resources—such as CPU, memory, and storage—to the virtualized environment. By running a virtual machine, you essentially create an isolated computer within the main operating system, allowing you to run a completely different operating system. It provides a high degree of isolation between the host and guest operating systems.

Advantages and Disadvantages of VM

✔Advantages:

1. Complete Isolation

Virtual machines offer complete isolation between the host and guest operating systems, making them perfect for securely testing and running untrusted applications without affecting the host system.

2. Complete Operating System

The virtual machine runs a complete operating system, including the kernel, which allows it to support various Linux environments with a graphical user interface and full application control.

3. Support for any Operating System

The VM supports any operating system, including Linux, Windows, and macOS (on compatible hardware). This flexibility is essential for testing, cross-platform development, and legacy software that requires specific OS versions.

❌Disadvantages:

1. Resource Intensive

Each virtual machine requires dedicated resources, like CPU, memory, and disk space. Running multiple virtual machines can impact system performance, especially on machines with limited hardware.

2. Slower Performance

Compared with the native operating systems or lightweight solutions such as WSL, VMs typically have lower performance. This is obvious when running resource-intensive applications or using hardware accelerators such as GPUs.

3. Complex Setup and Maintenance

You need to install a hypervisor such as VMware, VirtualBox, or Hyper-V and manage virtual disks, network interfaces, and other settings. In addition, you must install and configure the operating system in the virtual machine.

Difference between WSL and Virtual Machine

The following table can help you have a better understanding of the difference between WSL and virtual machine, and also help you make a suitable choice.

An Easy and Secure Tool to Protect Virtual Environment

In contrast to Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), virtual machines offer a significantly more secure environment for running applications and services. To efficiently manage a substantial number of virtual machines, utilizing dedicated backup software can enhance your ability to maintain control and oversight. AOMEI Cyber Backup is a robust solution, designed specifically for professional backup needs.

This software facilitates automated backup tasks and features instant disaster recovery capabilities to safeguard your systems. With AOMEI Cyber Backup, you can effortlessly back up multiple virtual machines, leveraging its flexible policy options tailored to your specific requirements. Additionally, the software allows for seamless monitoring of your backup processes, sending email notifications in case of any errors or issues, and ensuring that you stay informed and respond promptly to any potential problems.

Simple Steps to Backup VMware VMs

Step 1. Navigate to Source Device > VMware > + Add VMware Device to add device, and enter Device Information and User Information, then click Confirm.

Step 2. Navigate to Backup Task > + Create New Task, and select VMware ESXi Backup as the Backup Type. Then set the Task Name, Device, Target, Archive, Schedule, and Cleanup according to your needs.

Archive: You can enable archiving backup versions to Amazon S3 and click Select to choose the added Amazon S3.

Schedule: You can schedule the backup as full, incremental, or differential backup and specify time to run the backup.

Cleanup: You can configure a retention policy to auto-delete files and save storage space.

Step 3. Click Start Backup and choose Add the schedule and start backup now or Add the schedule only.

Conclusion

WSL and virtual machines can meet different needs on Windows, and WSL integrates seamlessly with Linux tools without virtualization overhead. However, virtual machines offer greater isolation and flexibility and are suitable for running complete, isolated environments and multiple operating systems. You can choose between the two depending on your needs.