How to use the command "genie" (with examples)

The “genie” command is a tool used to set up and use a “bottle” namespace to run systemd under WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux). It provides a way to run Linux system services and daemons on a Windows system without the need for a full Linux distribution.

Use case 1: Initialize the bottle

Code:

genie -i

Motivation: The “-i” option is used to initialize the bottle. This is a one-time step that prepares the containerized environment for running systemd. It sets up the necessary system directories, mounts, and services.

Explanation:

• “genie” is the command itself.
• “-i” is the option to initialize the bottle.

Example output:

Initializing bottle...
Bottle initialized successfully.

Use case 2: Run a login shell inside the bottle

Code:

genie -s

Motivation: The “-s” option is used to run a login shell inside the bottle. This provides a way to interactively use the containerized environment and access the Linux shell.

Explanation:

• “genie” is the command itself.
• “-s” is the option to run a login shell.

Example output:

Starting login shell...
[username@hostname ~]$

Use case 3: Run a specified command inside the bottle

Code:

genie -c command

Motivation: The “-c” option is used to run a specified command inside the bottle. This allows for running specific commands within the containerized environment without the need for a full login shell.

Explanation:

• “genie” is the command itself.
• “-c” is the option to specify a command to run.
• “command” is the actual command to be executed inside the bottle.

Example output:

Running specified command...
Output of the command.

Conclusion:

The “genie” command is a powerful tool for running systemd under WSL. By initializing the bottle, running a login shell, or executing specified commands, users can leverage the benefits of Linux system services and daemons on their Windows systems.