WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80041002

When trying to install WSL, you may receive, WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80041002, resulting from the system trying to connect to communicate over ports and network. If you are using security or firewall software, the issue can be because of that. This post helps you resolve the problem by suggesting some working solutions.

WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0x80041002

None of these suggestions is asking you to reinstall. I would suggest doing it as the first step and check if it works. If not, follow the suggestions below:

1. Upgrade instead of Reinstall
2. Check Security Applications

Interesting to note that the error may not occur with every flavor of Linux installation.

1] Upgrade instead of Reinstall

If you already have an earlier version of WSL, and you need to upgrade, then instead of reinstalling, update using bash. Open the command prompt, and then follow the commands as shown below:

C:> bash
$ sudo apt-get update
$ sudo apt-get dist-upgrade
$ <CTRL-D>
C:> exit

This method can be used with almost every error code when migrating from one version of WSL to another.

2] Check Security Applications

First reported by users of Comodo Internet Security users, the Firewall may be blocking the communication or port.

Check with the Security software if there is a list of applications that have been blocked. Apps like PowerShell needs to be unblocked if that’s the case. You can also choose to disable the software, install WSL, and install or enable the security software.

WslRegisterDistribution Error 0x80041002 is related with Firewall issue. In general, you need to check with the security software, connect with the forum and the OEM to figure this problem out. I hope the post helped you understand and resolve the problem.