How to Use the Command 'wsl-open' (with Examples)

The wsl-open command is a versatile tool that allows users to seamlessly integrate their Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) with the Windows operating system. It enables users to open files and URLs from their WSL environment in their default Windows graphical user interface (GUI) applications. This is particularly useful for those who rely on both Linux and Windows applications for their workflows, providing a bridge between the two ecosystems. The command enhances productivity by eliminating the hassle of manually navigating to files or webpages using Windows GUI applications when working within the WSL terminal.

Open the Current Directory in Windows Explorer

Code:

wsl-open .

Motivation: Navigating complex directory structures in the terminal can sometimes be cumbersome, especially for users who are more comfortable using a graphical interface for file management. By opening the current directory directly in Windows Explorer, users can quickly and easily browse, copy, or manage files using familiar Windows interface features, benefiting their productivity and workflow efficiency.

Explanation: The . argument in the command wsl-open . signifies the current directory. In Unix-based systems, including WSL, the period . is shorthand for the current directory. When passed to wsl-open, it instructs the tool to open this directory in Windows Explorer, thereby providing a visualization of the directory contents in a more accessible and user-friendly manner.

Example Output:
Executing this command will open the Windows Explorer window that displays the files and directories contained in the current working directory of the WSL environment.

Open a URL in the User’s Default Web Browser in Windows

Code:

wsl-open https://example.com

Motivation: Often, a developer or a user may encounter a URL while working within their terminal environment. Instead of copying and pasting this URL into a web browser manually, wsl-open streamlines the process by launching the URL directly in the user’s default Windows web browser, saving time and effort.

Explanation: The URL https://example.com serves as the input to wsl-open, which takes this argument and forwards it to the Windows environment. The command then opens this URL in whichever web browser is set as the default on the Windows side. This automatic handoff from WSL to Windows greatly enhances cross-platform usability.

Example Output:
Upon executing, the command triggers the default browser in Windows to open and navigate to the specified webpage, https://example.com.

Open a Specific File in the User’s Default Application in Windows

Code:

wsl-open path\to\file

Motivation: When working with diverse file types in a WSL environment, users might need to open a file using specific Windows applications that better support editing or viewing those file types. By using wsl-open, users avoid the inconvenience of manually finding and opening files with the desired application outside their current WSL session.

Explanation: In this scenario, path\to\file is a placeholder that indicates the path to the specific file you want to open. The command wsl-open interprets this path within the WSL context, transitions control to Windows, and launches the file using the application that is set as the default for that file type on Windows.

Example Output:
Running this command would result in the associated Windows application (e.g., Notepad for text files, Microsoft Word for DOC files) opening and displaying the file in a new window.

Set wsl-open as the Shell’s Web Browser

Code:

wsl-open -w

Motivation: For users who frequently interact with URLs from their WSL terminal, setting wsl-open as the default shell’s web browser offers a seamless workflow. Whenever a command or application within WSL tries to open a URL, wsl-open automatically handles it, directing the URL to the user’s preferred Windows browser without additional user intervention.

Explanation: By using the -w option, the command configures wsl-open as the default browser within the shell environment for handling web-based operations. This means any URL requiring opening by a browser will be funneled through wsl-open, ensuring uniformity and ease of access across both operating systems.

Example Output:
After execution, any command or application that attempts to open a URL will utilize wsl-open for browser redirection, offering a smooth and integrated browsing experience.

Display Help

Code:

wsl-open -h

Motivation: Familiarizing oneself with command options and functionalities is crucial for effective tool usage. Displaying the help information for wsl-open provides essential guidance on command usage, available flags, and features, empowering the user to leverage the command’s full capabilities efficiently.

Explanation: The -h flag is commonly used across many command-line tools to trigger a help or manual display, and wsl-open is no exception. This flag provides users with detailed information about executing the command, descriptions of possible arguments and options, and insights into the command’s usage.

Example Output:
Executing wsl-open -h will display a list of options and a brief description of each, guiding users on how to implement the tool effectively.

Conclusion

The wsl-open command plays an instrumental role in optimizing user experience within Windows Subsystem for Linux. By enabling the opening of files and URLs directly through Windows’ default GUI applications, it facilitates a seamless and productive bridge between terminal-based and graphical workflows. By familiarizing oneself with the various use cases outlined above, users can enhance their cross-platform interactions while maintaining a consistent and efficient work environment.