This guide provides step-by-step instructions to install Docker on Windows.
Prerequisites
- Windows 10 64-bit: Home, Pro, or Enterprise (version 1903 or later)
- Windows 11
- At least 4GB of RAM
- Admin privileges
- Internet connection
- Virtualization enabled in BIOS
Install Docker on Windows
- Step 1: Download Docker Desktop Download the latest version of Docker Desktop from the official Docker website: Docker Desktop for Windows
- Step 2: Install Docker Desktop Run the downloaded .exe installer. Follow the installation wizard instructions. Select whether to use Windows containers or Linux containers (Linux is recommended for most users). Click "Install" and wait for the installation to complete. Restart your system if prompted.
- Step 3: Verify Installation Once Docker is running, open PowerShell or Command Prompt and run:
docker --version
You should see the installed Docker version displayed.
- Step 4: Run a Test Container To verify that Docker is functioning correctly, run: docker run hello-world This will download and run a test container.
Post-Installation Steps
Enable WSL 2 Backend (Recommended for Windows Home Users) If using Windows 10 Home, ensure that WSL 2 is installed and set as the default backend:
wsl --set-default-version 2
Docker Desktop settings should also be configured to use the WSL 2 backend. Configure Docker to Start at Login Open Docker Desktop settings. Enable "Start Docker Desktop when you log in."
Uninstall Docker on Windows
- Step 1: Quit Docker Desktop Ensure Docker is not running by right-clicking the Docker icon in the system tray and selecting "Quit Docker."
- Step 2: Uninstall Docker Open "Control Panel" > "Programs and Features." Select "Docker Desktop" and click "Uninstall."
- Step 3: Remove Docker Data (Optional)
Run the following command in PowerShell to remove all Docker data:
rm -rf $Env:APPDATA\Docker rm -rf $Env:PROGRAMDATA\Docker
Additional Resources
You have successfully installed Docker on your Windows system!