Microsoft Released Native Linux Containers for Windows

The new wslc command enables users to build and run OCI-compatible Linux containers natively without Docker Desktop.

Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Software

Isometric editorial illustration of modular metal containers connected by light filaments, representing native container software integration. — Microsoft has released general availability for native Linux container support on Windows, allowing developers to manage workloads directly through the WSL subsystem. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you switch to native Windows container tools instead of using third-party software like Docker?

Microsoft has reached general availability for WSL containers, a native toolset that allows Linux container management directly within Windows. This development provides an alternative for running containerized workloads without needing to install Docker Desktop.

Why it matters

By integrating container management into the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), Microsoft simplifies local development workflows that previously required third-party virtualization software. This native approach streamlines how developers build and deploy OCI-compatible images on the Windows platform.

The system uses the wslc command-line tool to manage workloads through isolated sessions with individual storage for images, networks, and volumes. Users can execute tasks like port mapping, such as 8080:80 for an nginx container, while mounting Windows folders directly into containers.

The players

Microsoft

The primary developer of the Windows operating system and the Windows Subsystem for Linux platform.

The details

The wslc command serves as the primary interface for run, build, and exec operations, interacting with an API that facilitates file mounts, networking, and GPU access for Linux containers. By bypassing the requirement for a separate container daemon, the system leverages the underlying WSL architecture to maintain isolated environments while remaining compatible with OCI (Open Container Initiative) standards. Additionally, the Dev Containers CLI now supports these native containers, allowing for tighter integration with existing development workflows.

WSL containers reached general availability on September 29, 2026.

The Tech Race

This release signals Microsoft's shift toward providing a complete, native development environment that rivals established third-party container management tools. It follows a trajectory of tightening integration between Windows and Linux to capture enterprise developer workflows.

Developers can now manage Linux containers directly from PowerShell after updating to the latest version of WSL. This eliminates the need for external virtualization software when working with local development environments or OCI-compatible images.

The takeaway

Developers looking to reduce local resource overhead should explore migrating their container workflows to the native wslc command. Monitor upcoming development updates for the release of native Docker Compose support to further optimize local container orchestration.