WSL (Windows Subsystem for linux)

Useful commands

Get WSL instances state an version: wsl -l -v
Shutdown WSL: wsl --shutdown
Set WSL default version to 2 for new distributions: wsl --set-default-version 2
Set WSL instance version 2 (example with kali-linux distribution): wsl --set-version kali-linux 2

Troubleshooting

Error: WslRegisterDistribution failed with error: 0xc03a001a (example Ubuntu)

NTFS has this feature that compresses directories to save space. If some or all of your icons are marked by 2 opposing blue arrows , that's your sign that said feature is indeed on.
Now, because of this, the directory that hosts your Store downloads might also have the same issue.

Solution

Go to C:\Users\<your_UserName>\AppData\Local\Packages folder. If not apparent, it's probably hidden.
Once inside directory, search subdirectory with 'ubuntu' string/keyword. Once located, right click the directory Properties -> Advanced -> uncheck the compression -> Apply.
Now the ubuntu directory should have the arrows removed, which means you should have a better chance at actually running the distro install. (thanks to rs-droid)