How to Install Docker Desktop on Linux Mint 32

Linux Mint 22 users looking to simplify containerized application management have a powerful tool at their fingertips: Docker Desktop. This comprehensive platform provides a user-friendly interface, a powerful command-line interface (CLI), and essential tools like Docker Compose and Kubernetes – all bundled together.

While the standalone Docker Engine and CLI tools offer greater control and a lightweight footprint, they come with a steeper learning curve. Docker Desktop, on the other hand, streamlines the process, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned developers.

This guide walks you through the steps of installing and configuring Docker Desktop on your Linux Mint 22 system, unlocking a world of seamless container management.

System Requirements

To ensure a smooth Docker Desktop installation, your Linux Mint 22 system must meet the following requirements:

• 64-bit kernel and CPU with virtualization support: Docker Desktop relies on virtualization technology to create a secure and isolated environment for containers.

• At least 4 GB of RAM: Adequate RAM ensures smooth performance when running multiple containers simultaneously.

• KVM virtualization support: KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is a virtualization technology built into the Linux kernel.

• QEMU version 5.2 or newer: QEMU (Quick Emulator) is a virtualization platform used by Docker Desktop.

• Desktop environment with system tray support: This is required for Docker Desktop's system tray integration.

It's crucial to understand that Docker Desktop runs within a virtual machine, establishing its own Docker context. Containers deployed on your Linux host before installing Docker Desktop will not be accessible within the app. To manage them using Docker Desktop, you'll need to redeploy them through the application.

Installation Steps

Follow these steps to install Docker Desktop on your Linux Mint 22 system:

1. Add the Official Docker Repository: While a single DEB package is all you need for Docker Desktop, installing it directly without adding the Docker repository will result in missing dependencies.

   To address this, run the following commands in your terminal, ensuring they are executed in the order presented:

         sudo apt install apt-transport-https ca-certificates curl gnupg
   curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/debian/gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/docker.gpg
   echo "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture) signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/docker.gpg] https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu noble stable" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list > /dev/null
       

   Use code with caution.Bash

   The third command adds the Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Docker repository to your system. Since Linux Mint 22 is based on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, this ensures compatibility and access to the necessary packages.

2. Refresh the Repository Index: After adding the Docker repository, update the package list to reflect the new source:

         sudo apt update
       

   Use code with caution.Bash

   This step ensures that your system is aware of the newly added repository and its contents.

3. Download Docker Desktop: Navigate to the Docker Desktop download page (link provided above). Click the "DEB package" link to initiate the download process.

4. Install Docker Desktop: Once the DEB package is downloaded, use the following command to install it. Remember to adjust the file path if you downloaded it to a different location:

         sudo apt install ./Downloads/docker-desktop-amd64.deb
       

   Use code with caution.Bash

   Wait for the necessary packages to be downloaded and installed. This process usually takes less than a minute.

Running Docker Desktop

Congratulations! Docker Desktop is now installed. Find the application in your Start menu, located in the "Programming" section. Launch Docker Desktop by clicking its icon.

The first time you run the application, you will be presented with the "Docker Subscription Service Agreement." Click "Accept" to proceed.

On the next screen, you can choose to log in to your Docker Desktop subscription if you have one. Otherwise, simply click the "Skip" link.

Docker Desktop may then present you with a quick survey designed to gather user feedback. Feel free to participate by answering the questions or click "Skip" to proceed directly to the main application.

You have successfully installed Docker Desktop on your Linux Mint 22 system! You can manage the application through the system tray icon.

Automatic Startup with Docker Desktop

While Docker Desktop allows you to start it automatically when you log in, this feature is not currently functional under Linux. To ensure that Docker Desktop launches seamlessly each time you log into your Linux Mint 22 system, we can use a simple workaround:

1. Open Startup Applications: From your Mint Start menu, search for "Startup Applications."

2. Add Application: Click the "+" icon and select "Choose application."

3. Select Docker Desktop: Search for "docker" and click the Docker Desktop application when it appears.

4. Confirm: Click the "Add Application" button.

Now, Docker Desktop will automatically start when you log into your Linux Mint 22 system.

Conclusion

Installing Docker Desktop on Linux Mint 22 is a straightforward process, thanks to clear instructions and the streamlined installation approach.

Whether you're setting up a development environment, running containers for testing, or deploying applications, Docker Desktop provides a comprehensive and user-friendly platform to manage your containerization needs efficiently.

For more in-depth knowledge about using Docker, explore the official Docker documentation or delve into the comprehensive Docker Desktop manuals. Embrace the power of containers and unlock a world of possibilities with Docker Desktop on Linux Mint 22!