Resolve the “WslRegisterDistribution Failed” Issue With Error Code 0x80070032

Resolve the “WslregisterDistribution Failed” Issue With Error Code 0x80070032

If you’re a Windows user trying to run Linux through the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and encounter the error message “WslregisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80070032”, you’re not alone. This issue can be frustrating, especially if you’re a developer or IT professional relying on WSL for daily tasks.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes this error and how you can fix it using simple and effective methods.

What Does the 0x80070032 Error Mean in WSL?

This specific error appears when you try to install or launch a Linux distribution (like Ubuntu) in WSL. The full message may look like this:

Installing, this may take a few minutes...

WslregisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80070032

Error: 0x80070032 The request is not supported.

The error code 0x80070032 generally means that the requested operation is not supported by your current system configuration. In the case of WSL, this usually points to a problem with the Windows Subsystem for Linux version, missing virtualization support, or outdated Windows components.

Common Causes of the 0x80070032 Error in WSL

Before jumping into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand what might be triggering this error:

• WSL 2 not enabled or supported by your version of Windows

• Virtualization not enabled in BIOS/UEFI

• Outdated Windows version (prior to build 1903)

• Hyper-V or Virtual Machine Platform features not installed

• Corrupted or partial Linux distribution installations

Let’s move on to fixing the problem.

1. Check Your Windows Version

WSL 2 requires Windows 10 version 1903 or higher, with Build 18362 or later. The error may occur if your system doesn’t meet this requirement.

How to Check:

1. Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter.

2. Look at the version and build number.

What You Need:

• Version 1903 or later

• Build 18362 or later

If you’re using an older version of Windows 10, consider updating through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

2. Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

WSL 2 relies on virtualization. If virtualization is disabled at the firmware level, you’ll see this or similar errors.

How to Check and Enable Virtualization:

1. Reboot your PC and enter BIOS or UEFI (commonly by pressing F2, F10, Del, or Esc during startup).

2. Look for a setting like Intel Virtualization Technology, VT-x, or AMD-V.

3. Make sure it’s enabled.

4. Save and exit BIOS.

After restarting, try running the Linux distribution again.

3. Enable Required Windows Features

Make sure WSL, Virtual Machine Platform, and optionally Hyper-V are enabled.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type optionalfeatures.exe, and press Enter.

2. In the Windows Features window:

   • Check Windows Subsystem for Linux

   • Check Virtual Machine Platform

   • (Optional) Check Hyper-V

3. Click OK and let Windows install them.

4. Restart your computer.

This ensures WSL and related virtualization support are correctly installed.

4. Set WSL 2 as the Default Version

If you’re trying to install a new distribution, it might be trying to use WSL 2. If WSL 2 isn’t set up correctly, you could get the error.

Command to Set WSL 2 as Default:

If you get an error saying WSL 2 is not installed, follow these instructions:

Install the WSL 2 Kernel Update:

1. Download the kernel update from the official Microsoft site: https://aka.ms/wsl2kernel

2. Install the MSI file.

3. Reboot your system.

Try launching your Linux distro again.

5. Reinstall the Linux Distribution

If your distribution didn’t install properly or is partially broken, reinstalling it might help.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.

3. Find your Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu), click the three dots, and select Uninstall.

4. Go to the Microsoft Store, search for the same distro, and reinstall it.

5. Try launching it again.

6. Use the WSL –Install Command

Windows has introduced a much simpler way to install WSL.

Try This in Command Prompt (Admin):

This command will:

• Install WSL

• Set up WSL 2

• Install Ubuntu (or another default distro)

Once the installation is complete, reboot and try launching the distribution.

7. Reset the WSL Environment (Optional)

If nothing seems to work, you can reset your WSL environment completely.

⚠️ Warning: This will remove all installed distributions and WSL data.

Reset Steps:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator.

2. Run:

For example:

Then reinstall the distribution from the Microsoft Store.

8. Check System Integrity

Corrupt system files can interfere with WSL functionality.

Use System File Checker:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

2. Run:

3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any repair instructions.

Final Thoughts

The WslregisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80070032 message might look intimidating at first, but in most cases, it’s caused by a system setting that can be easily fixed. By checking your Windows version, enabling virtualization, installing the correct features, and possibly reinstalling your distribution, you can get WSL up and running again.

WSL is a powerful tool that bridges Linux and Windows, and fixing this issue ensures you can make the most of both environments.