Mounting an ext* filesystem on Windows using WSL 2

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Published Jan 15, 2025

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a Windows optional feature that allows Linux distributions to run on Windows. WSL version 2 (WSL 2) comes with the ability to expose ext*-formatted partitions to Windows.

Do note that only ext-formatted partitions on offline drives (meaning drives not in use by Windows) can be mounted. This unfortunately means that systems with dualboot setups, where Windows and Linux OS's are installed on the same physical drive are not supported by this method.

Note

This method requires that WSL 2 and a WSL Linux distribution be installed.

Note

After mounting, the partition will be available under \\wsl.localhost\<WSL Linux distribution name>\mnt\wsl\ (access this path in File Explorer).

Notes out of the way, please follow Microsoft's guide to get started!