Learn how to fix GTK Error on WSL. Our Server Management Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

How to fix GTK Error on WSL

If you running into an error message that says GTK cannot be started on our Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) setup, our experts have your back,

This is a common issue. It occurs because GTK relies on an X server to function properly, and WSL does not provide one by default.

Today, we are going to take a look at how to resolve this error:

1. First, we have to install an X server on our Windows machine. Fortunately, there are several options available, like Xming and MobaXTerm. We can choose one that suits our needs.
2. Now, it is time to configure our X server:
   • For Xming:

     When launching Xming, use the `-multiwindow` option. This allows each X application to run in its own window on the Windows desktop.
   • For MobaXTerm:

     There is no need for additional configuration after installation. Just launch the program, and it will automatically start the X server.
3. Then, we have to set the DISPLAY environment variable in our WSL terminal as seen below:

   export DISPLAY=:0

   Here, `:0` is the display number of the X server. If we are running multiple X servers, we have to adjust this number accordingly.
4. Now, it is time to test our setup. We can run a GTK-based application to see if the error has been resolved.

Troubleshooting Tips

If we run into an error message like the one below, it means that the X server is either not running or not properly configured.

xhost: unable to open display “:0”

In such cases, we have to launch the X server before running the `xhost` command.

Let us know in the comments if you need further help with fixing GTK Error on WSL.

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Conclusion

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to fix GTK Error on WSL.