Raft WSL Update: July 2025

We've been hard at work enhancing Raft WSL, and we're excited to share some key improvements and new features introduced since our last major update.

🚀 Performance and User Experience

We're continuously refining Raft WSL to ensure smoother and faster experiences, especially on resource-constrained and ARM64 devices:

  • Startup Speed Boost: Raft WSL now launches significantly faster and feels more fluid across the board. If you're using ARM64 devices or lower-end PCs, you'll notice a particularly big improvement.

🧩 Enhanced Snapshots and Import Features

Managing snapshots and distro imports is easier and more powerful:

  • VHD Snapshots & Imports: You can now create and import snapshots in VHD format for WSL2 distros. This enhancement drastically reduces snapshot creation time and allows handling larger distributions effortlessly.
  • Improved Snapshot Workflow: If snapshot creation encounters issues, you'll return immediately to the creation dialog, clearly notified of the problem. Plus, Raft now alerts you instantly if a snapshot name is already taken.

🔧 PowerToys Integration

We've leveled up Raft WSL’s integration with Microsoft's PowerToys:

  • ARM64 Availability: The PowerToys plugin is available on ARM64 devices for the very first time.
  • Easier Installation: Fixed issues that previously hindered plugin installation on some systems, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone.
  • Version Syncing: We've synchronized the PowerToys plugin version with the exact PowerToys version it supports, streamlining updates and compatibility.

📦 Expanded Distro Support

We're committed to giving you maximum flexibility with Linux distributions. Recent updates include support for:

  • Fedora Linux 42
  • Arch Linux
  • AlmaLinux OS 10 and AlmaLinux OS Kitten 10
  • Oracle Linux 9.5

🔨 Additional Fixes

  • Addressed a regression that allowed creation of duplicate snapshot names.
  • Fixed a bug specific to WSL 2.5.x where the import dialog wouldn’t close properly after finishing.

These updates reflect our continued commitment to making Raft WSL the best way to experience Linux on Windows. Thanks for your support and feedback!

Stay tuned for even more exciting updates coming soon!