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How To Install Docker Without Docker Desktop On Windows
Also, learn how to use Portainer as an alternative Docker GUI
As a developer who switched from Linux to Windows because of many reasons, I have used Docker Desktop for several months now because it updates my Docker environment automatically.
Unfortunately, this is not possible anymore and I have to remove Docker Desktop.
Luckily I did not use Docker Desktop for any commands or functionality except for updating the Docker engine so this change will not affect my workflow.
Why Should You Install Docker Without Docker Desktop?
Docker updated its Docker Desktop License Agreement and permit the professional use of Docker Desktop in large organizations without having a paid Docker subscription. This means that if your company has 250+ employees or more than $10 million in annual revenue you will not able to use Docker Desktop without a paid subscription. It remains free for smaller companies, private use, open-source projects, and educational purposes.
This license update is only related to Docker Desktop and not to Docker or the Docker Engine. This enables you to still use Docker for development and all types of environments, including the production ones. Normally, this license update does not impact your company’s business if working with Docker.
Prerequisites
To follow this How-To you need to have a WSL2 compatible workstation like Windows 10 version 2004 or higher. To check which version is installed press Windows logo key + R and press Enter to show your system settings. If you do not meet the requirement please update your Windows.
If Docker Desktop is installed you have to uninstall it
In Windows, the Linux Subsystem has to be enabled. This can be done by pressing the Windows log key, typing “Turn Windows features on and off” and open it.
Scroll to the bottom and activate the feature if it is deactivated.
