Overview of Docker Desktop

Docker Desktop is a one-click-install application for your Mac, Linux, or Windows environment that lets you build, share, and run containerized applications and microservices.

It provides a straightforward GUI (Graphical User Interface) that lets you manage your containers, applications, and images directly from your machine. You can use Docker Desktop either on its own or as a complementary tool to the CLI.

Docker Desktop reduces the time spent on complex setups so you can focus on writing code. It takes care of port mappings, file system concerns, and other default settings, and is regularly updated with bug fixes and security updates.


  • Ability to containerize and share any application on any cloud platform, in multiple languages and frameworks.
  • Quick installation and setup of a complete Docker development environment.
  • Includes the latest version of Kubernetes.
  • On Windows, the ability to toggle between Linux and Windows containers to build applications.
  • Fast and reliable performance with native Windows Hyper-V virtualization.
  • Ability to work natively on Linux through WSL 2 on Windows machines.
  • Volume mounting for code and data, including file change notifications and easy access to running containers on the localhost network.

Docker Desktop works with your choice of development tools and languages and gives you access to a vast library of certified images and templates in Docker Hub. This allows development teams to extend their environment to rapidly auto-build, continuously integrate, and collaborate using a secure repository.