How to Fix WSL failed with error: 0x80004005

1. What Does WslRegisterDistribution Failed with Error 0x80004005 Mean?

This WSL error 0x80004005 is an unspecified error code that occurs when Windows Subsystem for Linux encounters problems during the distribution registration process. It prevents WSL from properly registering and initializing your chosen Linux distribution, making it impossible to use WSL features.

📌 Common Causes of WSL Failed Error

Understanding what triggers errors occurred during wsl startup helps in preventing future issues. Several factors can cause this error:

• LxssManager Service Issues: The LxssManager service, which manages Linux instances on Windows, might not be running or configured incorrectly. If this service isn't set to start automatically or is disabled, WSL cannot function properly.
• Outdated WSL Version: Running an older version of WSL can lead to compatibility issues and registration failures. Microsoft regularly updates WSL to fix bugs and improve stability, so an outdated installation might lack critical patches.
• Corrupted Windows System Files: Sometimes, corrupted Windows system files or incomplete Windows updates can interfere with WSL functionality, triggering various errors including the registration failure.
• Permission and Security Issues: Antivirus software, firewall settings, or Windows security policies might block WSL from accessing necessary system resources, resulting in the error during registration.

⚡ 2. How to Fix WslRegisterDistribution Failed Error?

Now let us explore the most effective solutions. Try these fixes in order, as each addresses different underlying causes.

Fix 1: Change the LxssManager Service Startup Type to Automatic

The LxssManager service is the backbone of WSL operations. If it’s not configured to start automatically, WSL distributions won’t register properly. This is one of the most common causes of the errors occurred during wsl startup.

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services window.

• Scroll down and locate LxssManager in the list of services. And right-click it and select Properties.

• In the Properties window, find the Startup type dropdown menu. Change the startup type from Manual to Automatic.

  

• Click Apply, then OK to save the changes. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

After rebooting, try launching your WSL distribution again. This solution resolves the issue in many cases, as reported by users on Microsoft’s support forums.

Fix 2: Run “wsl --update” Command in PowerShell

Keeping WSL updated is crucial for avoiding compatibility issues. Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve WSL’s stability. An outdated WSL version can easily trigger the WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80004005.

• Click the Start button and search for PowerShell and run it as administrator.

• In the PowerShell window, type the following command: wsl --update. Press Enter and wait for the update process to complete.

  

• Once the update finishes, you may see a message confirming the update was successful.

• Close PowerShell and try launching your WSL distribution again.

This command downloads and installs the latest WSL kernel and components directly from Microsoft, ensuring you have the most recent bug fixes and improvements.

Fix 3: Turn on the Windows Subsystem for Linux

Sometimes the WslRegisterDistribution failed error occurs simply because the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature isn’t enabled on your system. This is particularly common on fresh Windows installations or after major Windows updates.

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Type “optionalfeatures ” and press Enter to open Windows Features.

• Scroll through the list and find Windows Subsystem for Linux and check the box.

  

• Also check Virtual Machine Platform if you plan to use WSL. Then, click OK to apply the changes.

• Windows will search for and install the required files. When prompted, restart your computer.

After your computer restarts, the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature will be fully enabled, and you should be able to register your Linux distributions without encountering the error.

Fix 4: Update Windows

An outdated Windows operating system can cause numerous compatibility issues with WSL. Microsoft frequently releases Windows updates that include important fixes for WSL-related problems. If you are still experiencing this error after trying the previous fixes, updating Windows should be your next step.

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• Next, select your desired Windows version, inserted USB flash drive, partition style and other options. Carefully review the summary of your selections. Click Start to begin the process.

  

• A confirmation popup will appear, warning that the USB drive will be formatted and all data on it will be erased. Just click Sure to proceed installation.

  

• The 4DDiG tool will now download the official Windows ISO and install Windows. Once finished, your Windows already be installed.

  

Your system will restart with a fresh Windows installation, free from the corruption that caused the WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80004005.

More FAQs

1. How to fix 0x80004005 unidentified error when connecting to a network resource?

• Reset network credentials in Credential Manager
• Run Network Troubleshooter
• Reset TCP/IP stack using “netsh int ip reset”
• Temporarily disable antivirus/firewall to test

2. Can a firewall cause the 0x80004005 error?

Yes, absolutely. Firewalls can block the necessary ports and protocols for network communication, WSL operations, or file sharing, triggering error 0x80004005. Both Windows Firewall and third-party firewalls (like antivirus software) can cause this issue

Conclusion

Dealing with WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80004005 can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s entirely fixable. Each method addresses specific underlying causes of the error, and trying them systematically should resolve the issue in most cases. For persistent problems that resist standard troubleshooting,

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