Virtual machines (VMs) allow you to run Linux within a window on your Windows desktop. This method provides a full Linux environment with isolation from the host OS. VMs are perfect for users who want to test different Linux distributions or run Linux applications without affecting their main system.

Steps to Set Up a VM:

1. Download and Install Virtualization Software: Popular options include VMware Workstation, Oracle VM VirtualBox, and Hyper-V. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and robust features to help you create and manage your virtual machines.
2. Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian). Make sure to download from the official websites to ensure you get a genuine and secure copy.
3. Create a New VM: Open your virtualization software and create a new virtual machine. Allocate resources such as CPU, memory, and storage based on the requirements of your Linux distribution. Most virtualization software provides easy-to-follow wizards to guide you through the setup process.
4. Install Linux: Use the ISO file to install Linux on the VM. Follow the installation instructions provided by the Linux distribution. Once the installation is complete, you can start using Linux within the VM environment.

WSL is a compatibility layer for running Linux binary executables natively on Windows. It integrates with the Windows file system and allows you to run Linux command-line tools directly. WSL is ideal for users who need to use Linux tools without the overhead of a full VM or dual-boot setup.

Steps to Set Up WSL:

1. Enable WSL: Go to Settings > Update & Security > For Developers and enable “Developer Mode.” This step prepares your Windows system to support WSL.
2. Install WSL: Open PowerShell as an administrator and run wsl –install to install WSL and the default Linux distribution (usually Ubuntu). This command will download and set up the necessary components for WSL.
3. Choose a Linux Distribution: You can install additional distributions from the Microsoft Store. Simply search for the Linux distribution you want and install it like any other app.
4. Launch Linux: Open a terminal and start using Linux commands. You can access the Linux file system directly from Windows and use your preferred Linux tools seamlessly.

Dual-booting allows you to install Linux alongside Windows on your machine, giving you the option to boot into either operating system.This method is suitable for users who want to use both operating systems without the limitations of a VM.

Steps to Set Up Dual-Boot:

1. Create a Backup: Ensure you have a backup of your important data. This step is crucial to prevent data loss during the partitioning process.
2. Partition Your Drive: Use disk management tools to create a separate partition for Linux. You can use built-in tools like Disk Management in Windows or third-party tools to resize existing partitions and create space for Linux.
3. Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution. Ensure you download it from the official website to avoid any security issues.
4. Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use tools like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux ISO. This drive will be used to install Linux on your system.
5. Install Linux: Boot from the USB drive and follow the installation instructions. Choose the partition you created earlier for the Linux installation. During the setup, you can configure the bootloader to allow you to choose between Windows and Linux at startup.

Live USB allows you to run Linux directly from a USB drive without installing it on your hard drive. This is useful for testing or temporary use, providing a risk-free way to explore Linux.

Steps to Set Up a Live USB:

1. Download a Linux Distribution: Obtain an ISO file of your preferred Linux distribution. Make sure to download it from the official website to ensure authenticity and security.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use tools like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive with the Linux ISO. This drive will allow you to run Linux without affecting your current system setup.
3. Boot from the USB Drive: Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You might need to change the boot order in your BIOS settings to prioritize the USB drive. Once booted, you can run Linux directly from the USB drive, allowing you to test and use Linux without any permanent changes to your system.