BEST Web Dev Setup? Windows & Linux at the same time (WSL) | Summary and Q&A

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April 6, 2020

BEST Web Dev Setup? Windows & Linux at the same time (WSL)

TL;DR

Learn how to set up a professional web development environment on Windows using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), with tips and tools included.

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Key Insights

👻 Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows developers to run a Linux environment on Windows, improving productivity by merging the functionalities of both operating systems.
👏 Developers can use the new Windows Terminal app to access PowerShell and Linux terminals, enhancing the command line experience.
💦 Installing VS Code with the Remote WSL extension enables developers to work seamlessly on either Linux or Windows, depending on their requirements.
💨 Managing Node.js installations with Node Version Manager (nvm) provides an easy way to switch between different Node.js versions.
😫 Setting up Git and utilizing the GitHub CLI allows for efficient version control and remote repository management.
😀 Docker Desktop app enables developers to manage containers easily, although full support between WSL and Docker is still being developed.
🕸️ Recommended browsers for web development include Chrome for JavaScript debugging, Firefox for advanced CSS tools, and Brave for testing privacy-conscious functionality.

Transcript

I never thought I'd say this but in 2020 Windows has become the ultimate platform for the web developer Windows has become awesome for a variety of reasons but one of the biggest reasons is a feature called windows subsystem for Linux or WSL which allows you to run a real Linux environment on Windows without a virtual machine once you have it set u... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the purpose of Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)?

WSL allows developers to run a Linux environment on Windows, providing access to Linux-based utilities and processes while using Windows software, essentially merging the best of both worlds.

Q: How does WSL improve multitasking for developers?

With WSL, developers can work on server-side code while simultaneously using Windows software like Adobe Photoshop on a single system, eliminating the need for dual-booting and improving productivity.

Q: What are the benefits of using WSL for a full-stack developer?

WSL allows full-stack developers to link Linux to their front-end code, enabling them to use Linux-based utilities and spawn Linux processes from their application code, enhancing the development experience.

Q: How can developers enhance their command line experience on Windows?

By installing the new Windows Terminal app from the Microsoft Store, developers can access both PowerShell and Linux terminals, providing a more efficient and user-friendly command line experience.

Q: What are the recommended browsers for web development on Windows?

Chrome is recommended for front-end JavaScript debugging, while Mozilla Firefox offers superior CSS tools for handling flexbox and grid layouts. Brave is also suggested for testing site functionality with privacy-conscious features.

Summary & Key Takeaways

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows running a Linux environment on Windows, providing developers with the ability to work with Linux-based utilities and processes while using Windows software.
WSL enables a seamless integration of Windows and Linux, eliminating the need for dual-booting and allowing for efficient multitasking.
The content covers setting up WSL, configuring the terminal, installing essential tools like VS Code, Node.js, Git, Docker, and recommended browsers for web development.