Windows cannot natively read or write to Linux Ext4 partitions because it does not include the necessary file system drivers. However, you can easily access your Ext4 data using the native Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL2) or third-party GUI software. Method 1: Using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL2)
This is the safest and most reliable official method provided by Microsoft for Windows 10 and 11. It mounts your internal drive directly into a real Linux environment running inside Windows. Step 1: Install WSL2
Right-click the Start Menu and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin). Run the following command: powershell wsl –install Use code with caution.
Restart your computer to complete the installation if prompted. Step 2: Identify Your Ext4 Disk Path Open a new Administrator PowerShell window. List the attached physical hard drives by running: powershell wmic diskdrive list brief Use code with caution.
Note the identifier under the DeviceID column for your Linux drive (e.g., \.\PHYSICALDRIVE1). Step 3: Mount the Ext4 Partition
Mount the drive to WSL2 using your specific disk number and target partition number: powershell wsl –mount \.\PHYSICALDRIVE1 –partition 1 –type ext4 Use code with caution.
(Replace PHYSICALDRIVE1 and –partition 1 with your actual numbers.) Step 4: Access Your Files in File Explorer Open Windows File Explorer (Win + E).
Look at the left navigation sidebar and click on the Linux penguin icon.
Navigate to \Ubuntu\mnt\wsl\PHYSICALDRIVE1p1</code> (or your specific drive folder) to freely read and copy files. Step 5: Unmount Safely
When finished, completely close all Explorer windows accessing the drive.
Run this command in PowerShell to disconnect the drive safely: powershell wsl –unmount \.\PHYSICALDRIVE1 Use code with caution. Method 2: Using Free Third-Party Software (GUI)
If you prefer a visual interface without using terminal commands, or if you are trying to access a USB external drive (which WSL2 does not support natively out-of-the-box), use free tools. How to access an ext4 drive in windows 11 - step by step
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