Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix 0x80370114 Error – WSL 2 Installing Linux failed, error code: 0x80370114

Error code 0x80370114 occurs when installing Linux in WSL 2, possibly due to corrupted installation files or incompatible system configurations.

Quick Answer: Try reinstalling WSL and attempting the installation again with a clean slate.

WSL 2 Installing Linux failed with error code 0x80370114 is an issue that affects users who are trying to install Linux distributions using PowerShell. This error can be frustrating, especially for those who are new to WSL or Linux in general. However, by following the steps outlined below, you should be able to resolve this issue and successfully install your chosen Linux distribution.

The root cause of this error is often related to the version of Windows 10/11 that you are running, as well as the PowerShell version being used. In some cases, the WSL2 installation process may also be affected by issues with the Linux kernel or other system components.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • The primary reason for this error is that Windows 10/11 requires a minimum of 64-bit processor and at least 8 GB of RAM to run WSL. If your system does not meet these requirements, you may encounter the 0x80370114 error when attempting to install Linux distributions.
  • Another possible cause is that the Linux kernel version being used is incompatible with Windows 10/11. This can be resolved by updating the Linux kernel or using a different distribution that supports WSL2.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Resolving System Requirements and Updating Linux Kernel

  1. Step 1: Check your system requirements to ensure they meet the minimum requirements for WSL (64-bit processor, at least 8 GB of RAM). If you are using a 32-bit processor or less than 8 GB of RAM, consider upgrading your system to meet these requirements.
  2. Step 2: Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command `wsl --update` to update the Linux kernel. This will ensure that the latest version of the Linux kernel is installed on your system.
  3. Step 3: After updating the Linux kernel, try installing your chosen Linux distribution again using the command `wsl --install `. If you encounter the 0x80370114 error, repeat steps 1-3 until the installation is successful.

Using a Different Linux Distribution

  1. Step 1: Try installing a different Linux distribution that supports WSL2. Some popular distributions include Ubuntu, Debian, and openSUSE.
  2. Step 2: Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command `wsl --install ` to install your chosen distribution. If you encounter the 0x80370114 error, repeat steps until the installation is successful.

🎯 Final Words

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WSL 2 installing Linux failed issue with error code 0x80370114 and successfully install your chosen Linux distribution. Remember to check your system requirements and update the Linux kernel if necessary. If you are still experiencing issues, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

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