Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a Windows feature that lets users run Linux distributions and tools alongside Windows, without needing a separate physical computer. Depending on its configuration, Linux processes can interact with files, networks, and other resources available to the user.
In cyber security, WSL matters because code executed within it may still affect a developer’s work and access. For example, a malicious tool or compromised application could run commands in a WSL environment and potentially access data or resources permitted to that user. WSL is not automatically a security sandbox; use least-privilege accounts and stronger isolation, such as a virtual machine, when needed.