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Choose Your Environment

Last updated 2026-08-20 · 3 notes · 4 tags

Tags: wsl linux setup getting-started

You need a Linux-style command line for many of the later steps. Pick one path below and stick to it.

WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux) lets you run Ubuntu Linux inside Windows. You keep Windows apps (browser, Cursor, Excel) and still get a real Linux terminal.

Choose this if:

  • Your main computer runs Windows 11
  • You want the least disruption to how you already work

Next step: WSL on Windows

Note: Here, “WSL” means WSL2 with an Ubuntu distribution.

Option B — Native Linux (Ubuntu or Linux Mint)

Install Linux as the main system (or in a virtual machine). The terminal is built in; no WSL layer.

Choose this if:

  • You already use Ubuntu or Linux Mint
  • You prefer a machine dedicated to this work

Next step: Native Linux

Note: Commands in both setup guides are very similar after the first “get Linux running” section. The difference is mostly how you install the operating system.

What you will install on either path

Expect to set up: Git, GitHub CLI, Python, a code editor (Cursor or VS Code), useful terminal utilities, and optionally Node.js and Ollama for local AI models.

Note: Finish the verify checklist in your chosen setup guide first. Add optional tools when a project needs them.

Common mistakes

  • Mixing steps from the WSL guide and the native guide in the same sitting gets confusing — finish one path.
  • If a command fails with command not found, install that tool first, or restart the terminal after an install.

This content repository is based on the hands-on experience of Naveen Bachwani. AI tools were also used in augmenting and refining it. The goal is to help non-technical users get familiar with these tools, so they may be able to use them effectively.

Readers are responsible for using any commands or instructions provided here with appropriate caution. The creator of this site accepts no responsibility for system damage, data loss, or other consequences resulting from their use.