Docker Desktop
Docker Desktop is an app that streamlines the process of curating the design, roll-out, and operation of applications within Docker containers on desktop systems. Offered for both Windows and macOS, this utility is custom-tailored for developers aspiring to utilize Docker in an accessible and straightforward manner.
Features
Docker Desktop has several features that simplify and improve the Docker experience, especially for developers using Windows and macOS:
- Graphical User Interface (GUI): Docker Desktop provides a user-friendly GUI that allows you to manage containers, images, volumes and networks, as well as view logs, without the need to use the command line.
- Operating System Integration: Docker Desktop is tightly integrated with Windows and macOS operating systems, providing easy integration with the host file system and networking nuances of their operating systems.
- Kubernetes support: Docker Desktop includes Kubernetes, allowing developers to test their Kubernetes clusters locally before deploying them on a large scale.
- Easy-to-use networking: Docker Desktop makes container networking easy by automatically managing network settings so containers can communicate with each other and the host system.
- Volume Mounting for File Synchronization: Users can mount directories from the host system to Docker containers, allowing easy file sharing between the container and the workstation.
- Docker CLI Functionality: Beyond its graphical user interface, Docker Desktop brings a robust Docker command-line interface (CLI), enabling users to initiate, halt, and oversee containers and images via command inputs.
- Dual-mode Containers: For Windows users, Docker Desktop facilitates a seamless transition between Linux and Windows container environments, enhancing the ease of cross-platform application development.
- Docker Compose Capability: Included within Docker Desktop is the Docker Compose feature, which equips developers with the means to orchestrate complex, multi-container Docker applications using straightforward YAML configuration files.
- Extensibility with Add-ons: Docker Desktop is built to meld with an array of external tools and add-ons, enhancing the efficiency and adaptability of development workflows.
- Updates and security: Docker Desktop makes it easy to update the Docker Engine and other components, also ensuring that the local environment is compliant with security regulations.
Utilization
The use of Docker Desktop is common among developers who need:
- Develop, test and run applications in isolated containers.
- Work with microservice architecture and containerized applications.
- Quickly create and destroy test and development environments.
- Maintain deployment consistency between different environments (development, testing, production).
- Manage and test Kubernetes clusters locally.
- Perform cross-platform application development for different operating systems.
Docker Desktop has become a popular tool in the container ecosystem due to its convenience, speed, and wide range of features that allow developers to focus on building software.
Learn Docker with Serverspace
Serverspace has Docker FAQ page where you can find a lot of information about docker:
from Docker Engine to Basic Docker commands.
Also Serverspace has article - Docker for begginers that can serve you as "gate" to the world of that open platform.