How to Get WSA on Windows 10

Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) allows you to run Android apps directly on your Windows computer. While it’s officially available for Windows 11, many users on Windows 10 are eager to get WSA up and running. The process isn’t as straightforward as on Windows 11, but with some workarounds, you can make it happen.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to get WSA on Windows 10, covering everything from system requirements to installation.

What Is WSA and Why Do You Need It?

WSA is a feature that allows you to run Android apps natively on Windows. It integrates seamlessly with the system, letting you use Android apps as if they were regular desktop programs. Here’s why you might want WSA:

Access Android Apps: Use mobile apps directly on your PC without emulators.
Productivity: Combine your favorite Android tools with desktop software for an efficient workflow.
Gaming: Play Android games on a larger screen with better controls.

Although it’s primarily designed for Windows 11, there are ways to make it work on Windows 10.

Step 1: Check System Requirements

Before you start, ensure your computer meets the basic requirements for running WSA.

Minimum Requirements:

Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit, Version 1909 or later).
Processor: Intel Core i3 (8th Gen) or equivalent AMD processor.
RAM: At least 8 GB for smooth performance.
Storage: 10 GB of free space.
Virtualization: Ensure virtualization is enabled in your system BIOS.

How to Check Virtualization:

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Performance tab.
Look for "Virtualization" in the bottom-right corner. If it says "Enabled," you’re good to go.

If virtualization isn’t enabled, restart your computer and enable it in the BIOS settings.

Step 2: Install Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

Since WSA is not officially supported on Windows 10, you’ll need to use WSL as a base for running Android apps.

How to Install WSL:

Enable WSL:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
```
  wsl --install
```
- Restart your computer if prompted.
Install a Linux Distro:
- Open the Microsoft Store and search for Ubuntu.
- Click Get to download and install it.
Complete Setup:
- Launch Ubuntu and follow the on-screen instructions to set up a username and password.

WSL will serve as the foundation for running Android apps through WSA.

Step 3: Download an Android Emulator (Optional)

If you’re not comfortable with manual setup or want a simpler alternative, you can use an Android emulator like Bluestacks or Nox. These tools simulate an Android environment on Windows 10.

Recommended Emulators:

Bluestacks:
- Easy to set up and supports most Android apps.
- Download from Bluestacks Official Website.
Nox Player:
- Lightweight and ideal for gaming.
- Download from Nox Official Website.

Although these emulators are not WSA, they offer similar functionality for running Android apps.

Step 4: Download the WSA Package

Since WSA is designed for Windows 11, you’ll need to download its package and manually set it up on Windows 10.

How to Get the WSA Package:

Search for WSA Online:
- Visit GitHub or similar platforms where modified WSA packages are shared.
- Look for a reliable source with good reviews.
Download the Files:
- Ensure you download the complete package, including the kernel and necessary system files.
Extract the Files:
- Use a tool like WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the package into a folder.

Step 5: Install WSA on Windows 10

After downloading the WSA package, you’ll need to manually install and configure it.

Installation Steps:

Open PowerShell as Admin:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Navigate to WSA Folder:
- Use the cd command to move to the directory where you extracted the WSA files.
```
  cd C:\Path\To\WSA
```
Install WSA:
- Run the setup script included in the WSA package. For example:
```
  .\install.ps1
```
- Follow the on-screen instructions.

Once installed, WSA should appear as an app in your Start menu.

Step 6: Set Up Google Play Store (Optional)

By default, WSA doesn’t include Google Play Store. However, you can sideload it for access to a wide range of Android apps.

How to Install Google Play Store:

Download the Play Store APK:
- Visit a trusted site like APKMirror to get the Play Store APK.
Enable Developer Options:
- Open WSA and go to Settings > Developer Options.
- Toggle ADB Debugging to On.
Install the APK:
- Use ADB commands to sideload the Play Store. Open a terminal and type:
```
  adb install playstore.apk
```

Once installed, sign in with your Google account to use the Play Store.

Step 7: Launch Android Apps on Windows 10

Now that WSA is set up, you can start using Android apps on your Windows 10 computer.

Steps to Launch Apps:

Open WSA:
- Launch WSA from the Start menu.
Access Installed Apps:
- Open the app drawer to see your installed Android apps.
Run Apps:
- Click on any app to open it in a separate window.

The apps should function just like regular desktop programs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: WSA Not Launching

Solution: Ensure virtualization is enabled in BIOS and reinstall WSA if necessary.

Problem: Apps Not Running Smoothly

Solution: Increase RAM allocation for WSA by adjusting its settings.

Problem: Google Play Store Not Working

Solution: Reinstall the Play Store APK or try an alternative app store like Aurora Store.

Conclusion

Getting WSA on Windows 10 might require some extra steps, but it’s definitely possible with the right tools and workarounds. Whether you use WSL, emulators, or a manually installed WSA package, you can enjoy the benefits of running Android apps directly on your Windows 10 PC.

Follow this guide carefully, and don’t forget to troubleshoot if you encounter any issues. With WSA, you can combine the best of Android and Windows into one seamless experience.

See you soon in the next Windows 10 guide.