Windows subsystem for linux has no installed distributions. powershell

by Milan Stanojevic

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He's a PC enthusiast and he... read more

Published on August 26, 2019

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A version of Unix Shell (namely, Bash) can be installed on Windows 10. However, many people encountered the “Windows Subsystem For Linux has no Installed Distributions” error message when trying to use Bash.

A user reported the following issue on a forum:

I am trying to use bash on Windows 10, but I’m getting this message when tried to run bash:
Windows Subsystem for Linux has no installed distributions. Distributions can be installed by visiting the Windows Store: https://aka.ms/wslstore Press any key to continue… When I go to that url which opens the Windows Store app, there no sign of any Linux distribution there.

So, this is a major problem that makes the program inoperable. Also, there’s no sign of a Linux Distribution on Microsoft Store.

How to fix Windows Subsystem For Linux has no Installed Distributions error?

1. Wait for a few minutes

Quite a few users reported that the issue fixed by itself after a few minutes. Some processes take time before they start to run in the background.

So, when you reboot your computer, wait at least 5 minutes and then start the program.

Learn everything there is to know about installing Linux Bash on Windows 10!

2. Use Command Prompt to install Distributions

If the “Windows Subsystem For Linux has no Installed Distributions” error message appears, you need to install distributions manually by following the steps below.

1. Press the Windows key and type cmd.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
   
3. Type lxrun /install.
   
4. Press Y to begin the download.

3. Enable LxssManager Service

This error can appear if, for some reason, the LxssManager Service is disabled. Enable it in the manner described below.

1. Press the Windows key + R.
2. In the Run dialog box, type services.msc and click OK.
   
3. Find LsxxManager and double-click on it.
4. Select the Startup type as Automatic.
5. Click on Start and Apply.

Conclusion

As you can see, the “Windows Subsystem For Linux has no Installed Distributions” error can be solved easily.

Moreover, the problem might solve itself if you wait a few minutes after you restart your computer. If not, install the distributions manually or enable LxssManager Service.

Did you find our solutions helpful? How do you use Bash on Windows 10? Do let us know in the comments section below!

RELATED ARTICLES YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT:

• Dual boot Windows 10 and Linux issues: Here’s a quick fix
• Can’t install Linux with Windows 10? Here’s what to do
• 4 great Linux emulators for your Windows 10 PC

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