How to Set Up Docker on Windows: Installation and Project Setup

What is Docker?

Docker is a powerful platform that allows developers to package applications and their dependencies into lightweight containers, ensuring seamless functionality across different environments.

Prerequisites for Installing Docker

Windows 10/11 64-bit (Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions).
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL 2) installed and enabled.
Virtualization enabled in BIOS settings.
Administrator privileges.

Installing Docker Using Command Prompt

Follow these steps to install Docker using the Command Prompt:

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Download the Docker Desktop installer using the following command:

curl -fsSL https://desktop.docker.com/win/stable/DockerDesktopInstaller.exe -o DockerDesktopInstaller.exe

Run the installer silently with the following command:
```
DockerDesktopInstaller.exe install
```
Restart your computer after the installation completes.

Docker Desktop will now be installed on your system.

Step 3: Configure Docker Desktop

After installation:

Launch Docker Desktop from the Start Menu.
Sign in or create a Docker account.
Ensure WSL 2 is selected as the default backend under Settings.

Step 4: Test Docker Installation

Verify the installation by running the following command in the Command Prompt:

docker --version

If the Docker version is displayed, you are ready to use Docker!

Setting Up a Sample Project

Here’s how to set up and run a sample Docker project:

1. Create a Simple Web Server

Open your terminal and create a project folder:

mkdir my-docker-project && cd my-docker-project

Create a file named Dockerfile with the following content:

FROM python:3.9-slim
WORKDIR /app
COPY . /app
RUN pip install flask
CMD ["python", "app.py"]

2. Add a Sample Python Application

Create a file named app.py with the following content:

from flask import Flask
app = Flask(__name__)

@app.route('/')
def hello():
    return "Hello, Docker!"

if __name__ == '__main__':
    app.run(host='0.0.0.0', port=5000)

3. Build and Run the Docker Container

Build the Docker image:
```
docker build -t my-flask-app .
```
Run the Docker container:
```
docker run -p 5000:5000 my-flask-app
```
Open your browser and navigate to http://localhost:5000 to see your app running!

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Cannot find WSL 2: Install WSL 2 and set it as the default backend using:
```
wsl --set-default-version 2
```
Docker not starting: Restart your computer or reinstall Docker Desktop.
Permission errors: Run the commands with administrator privileges.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you’ve installed Docker on Windows, configured it, and set up a basic project. Docker is a versatile tool that will make your development workflow more efficient and scalable.