Microsoft Releases wslc Command for Windows 11

The new feature in WSL 3.0.1 allows users to manage and run Linux containers directly on Windows 11.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft Releases wslc Command for Windows 11

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Microsoft introduced the wslc command in September 2026 as part of its WSL 3.0.1 update. This tool enables users to pull, build, and run Linux containers directly from Windows 11 using PowerShell or CMD.

Why it matters

This update simplifies development workflows by allowing native GPU access for Linux containers on Windows without requiring separate environments. Microsoft is currently developing support for Docker Compose following requests from users.

The update enables direct GPU access for containers via existing Windows drivers and supports the --gpus all flag. WSL 3.0.1 also allows users to map ports and manage images through the new wslc command.

The players

Microsoft

The technology corporation responsible for developing the Windows operating system and the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

The details

Users can update to the latest version by running the wsl --update command in PowerShell. The new utility facilitates container image management and execution, though it currently lacks support for Docker Compose.

September 2026: WSL 3.0.1 release
October 24, 2026: Article publication

The Tech Race

This development represents a major step in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) ecosystem, bridging the gap between desktop development and cloud-native containerized workflows. By integrating native GPU pass-through, Microsoft is actively positioning Windows as a primary competitor to dedicated Linux environments for AI and container development.

Developers using Windows 11 can now manage Linux containers and access GPU resources directly from their command line without complex configuration. This change reduces dependency on third-party virtualization software and streamlines the testing of AI models on local hardware.

The takeaway

Users looking to leverage local hardware for containerized AI development should update their environment via PowerShell to access the new command set. The integration of GPU pass-through makes it easier to test high-performance workloads locally before deployment.