WSLRegisterDistribution Failed With Error: 0x80370114 — What It Means and How to Fix It

In a development that has stirred up significant conversation among Windows power users and developers alike, a recurring issue with the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is once again making headlines. The error in question, marked by the hexadecimal code 0x80370114, appears when attempting to install or register a Linux distribution via WSL2 on Windows 10 or Windows 11. The message is simple: “WSLRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80370114,” but the solution is anything but straightforward.

This issue highlights broader tensions between virtualization technologies and the increasingly complex interactions among system features, firmware settings, and user configurations. Here, we break down what the error means, why it happens, and the multiple pathways available to fix it.

Understanding WSL and Why It Matters

WSL is a feature in modern Windows systems that allows users to run a GNU/Linux environment directly on Windows, without the overhead of a traditional virtual machine or dual-boot setup. With WSL2, Microsoft significantly improved performance and compatibility by introducing a real Linux kernel via a lightweight VM – WSLRegisterDistribution Failed With Error: 0x80370114 .

The ease of access to Linux tools within a Windows environment has made WSL crucial for developers, data scientists, and system administrators. However, its reliance on specific virtualization technologies has introduced a new layer of system dependencies that must be meticulously aligned.

The Meaning of Error 0x80370114

Error 0x80370114 is a virtualization-related issue that occurs when the WSL2 subsystem cannot initiate the Hyper-V features required to run the Linux distribution. More specifically, it indicates that the system’s virtualization platform is either disabled, improperly configured, or being blocked by other software.

This error typically manifests during the following operations:

• Installing a new Linux distribution
• Upgrading from WSL1 to WSL2
• Launching a previously functional Linux distro after a system update

Root Causes Behind the Error

Several factors can trigger this particular error:

1. Hyper-V Not Enabled: WSL2 relies on Hyper-V. If Hyper-V isn’t fully enabled or correctly installed, WSL2 cannot function.
2. Windows Features Misconfiguration: Virtual Machine Platform and Windows Subsystem for Linux need to be explicitly enabled.
3. UEFI/BIOS Settings: Virtualization technologies like Intel VT-x or AMD-V may be disabled in the BIOS.
4. Third-Party Security Software: Some antivirus programs block Hyper-V components.
5. Corrupted WSL Installation: In some cases, updates or conflicting software can corrupt WSL binaries or their registry settings.

Step-by-Step Fix for Error 0x80370114

Step 1: Verify System Requirements

Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements:

• Windows 10 version 1903+ or Windows 11
• x64 processor with virtualization support
• At least 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)

Step 2: Enable Hyper-V and WSL Components

Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:

DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /All /FeatureName:Microsoft-Hyper-V
DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /All /FeatureName:VirtualMachinePlatform
DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /All /FeatureName:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux

Then restart your system.

Step 3: Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

1. Reboot your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually via Delete, F2, or Esc key).
2. Locate virtualization settings (Intel VT-x / AMD-V).
3. Enable the virtualization feature.
4. Save changes and reboot.

Step 4: Check for Conflicting Software

Uninstall or disable third-party antivirus or security tools that may interfere with Hyper-V. Windows Security is generally compatible with WSL.

Step 5: Reset or Reinstall WSL

In PowerShell (Admin), run:

wsl --shutdown
wsl --unregister <DistroName>

Or to reinstall WSL entirely:

wsl --unregister Ubuntu
wsl --install

Replace Ubuntu with the distro you’re using.

Step 6: Use Windows Features GUI

Navigate to:

Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off

Ensure the following are checked:

• Hyper-V
• Virtual Machine Platform
• Windows Subsystem for Linux

Apply changes and restart.

Advanced Diagnostics

If standard fixes don’t work, dive deeper:

• Event Viewer Logs: Check Application and Services Logs > Microsoft > Windows > Hyper-V-VMMS for related errors.
• Group Policy Conflicts: gpedit.msc > Administrative Templates > System > Device Guard to disable any interfering settings.
• System File Checker:

sfc /scannow

• DISM Repair:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

A Broader Shift in Windows Virtualization Strategy

The appearance of this error also coincides with Microsoft’s push toward deeper virtualization integration. The introduction of Dev Home in Windows 11 and native container support illustrates a strategy where sandboxing and VMs become central to the developer workflow – WSLRegisterDistribution Failed With Error: 0x80370114.

As this shift occurs, errors like 0x80370114 are more than nuisances—they are indicators of a growing dependency on virtualization layers within Windows.

Community Insights and Workarounds

On forums like GitHub and Microsoft TechNet, power users have offered creative solutions:

• Switch to WSL1 temporarily for compatibility:

wsl --set-version <DistroName> 1

• Use a Dedicated VM as a fallback until the issue resolves
• Update Kernel manually from Microsoft’s WSL release page

Future Outlook

As Microsoft continues to merge Linux and Windows workflows, issues like this are bound to become more visible—not less. The key for users will be adapting to the layered nature of these systems, keeping systems updated, and maintaining a clear understanding of how virtualization settings interact.

With AI-driven diagnostics and a more modular system design, we may see future Windows builds capable of automatically detecting and resolving such conflicts. Until then, awareness and proactive configuration remain essential.

Final Thoughts

Error 0x80370114 is a symptom of a broader narrative in tech: the convergence of systems, tools, and platforms. What was once a niche error now reflects the high-stakes nature of modern development environments. By understanding and resolving this issue, users not only fix an immediate problem but also align themselves with the future of cross-platform computing.