Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Docker is a platform for packaging applications and their dependencies into images, then running those images as containers. It helps developers move an application between development and deployment environments with a more consistent set of files and runtime requirements. To get started locally, most beginners can use Docker Desktop; Docker Engine is the underlying client-server technology for creating and running containers.

What Docker does

Docker describes itself as an open platform for developing, shipping, and running applications. Instead of installing an application’s components separately in every environment, a developer can package the application and its dependencies into an image. Docker can then run that image as a container.

An image is the packaged template; a container is a runnable instance of that image. Containers isolate applications from one another and from the host, while sharing the host operating system’s kernel. That shared kernel is one reason containers are generally lighter than full virtual machines, which run their own operating system. A container is not a virtual machine, and containerization alone does not make an application secure.

Docker’s glossary defines a container as “a runnable instance of an image.”

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Docker’s main components and how they fit together

Docker Engine: the container runtime

Docker Engine creates and runs containers. It uses the Docker daemon (dockerd), a REST API, and the Docker CLI. Common CLI commands include docker run to start a container, docker build to build an image, and docker ps to list running containers.

Docker Desktop: a bundled local development environment

Docker Desktop is an installable environment for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It bundles Docker Engine with related components and a graphical interface, making it a convenient starting point for local development. Docker’s Desktop overview lists components such as Engine, the CLI, Compose, and a Kubernetes cluster.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Docker Compose: a definition for multiple services

Compose describes a multi-container application in a YAML file, conventionally named compose.yaml. It lets you define services—such as an application and its database—and start them together with a command. Compose describes how the services fit together; it does not store or distribute the images.

Docker Hub: a registry for images

Docker Hub is Docker’s public registry service for storing, sharing, and managing images. Developers can retrieve images from it or publish images there. In short, Compose describes an application’s services, while Hub is one place to obtain or share the images those services use.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Docker Desktop or Docker Engine?

Choose based on your operating system and whether you want a bundled desktop development environment or the Engine installation by itself.

Option Best fit What to know
Docker Desktop Local development, especially for beginners who want a GUI and bundled tools Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. Its platform-specific behavior and licensing terms matter; see the Desktop overview and the relevant setup guide.
Docker Engine Linux hosts or users who specifically need Engine and the CLI without Desktop’s bundled environment Installed through a separate, distribution-specific route. Engine is open-source software; Docker Desktop has separate subscription terms.

Docker’s Get Docker guide links to Desktop for Mac, Windows, and Linux, as well as a separate Engine installation path. On Linux, Desktop runs in a VM with its own desktop-linux context and separate image and container storage. Existing containers and images in a Linux Engine are not available in Desktop by default, and running both can create port conflicts; consult Docker’s Linux installation guide before choosing a setup.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

How to choose and install a Docker setup

  1. Choose the component. For a local development environment with a GUI and bundled tools, start with Docker Desktop. If you need only Engine on a Linux host, use Docker’s Engine installation guide for your distribution.
  2. Check your platform’s requirements. For Windows, Docker Desktop supports WSL 2, Hyper-V, and Docker VMM (Beta), with WSL 2 the default for most users according to the current Windows installation and requirements guide. Requirements vary by version. Windows containers require Windows Pro or Enterprise, and Windows Server is not supported for Docker Desktop.
  3. Use the official installation route. Start at Docker’s Get Docker page and follow the instructions for your operating system or Engine distribution.
  4. Check which environment you’re using. This is particularly important on Linux, where Desktop and a pre-existing Engine can have distinct contexts and storage. Docker’s Linux guide explains the desktop-linux context.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Docker Desktop licensing and cost

Docker Engine and Docker Desktop have different licensing contexts. Docker says Engine is accessible to all, while Desktop use is governed by separate subscription terms. As described in Docker’s Plans FAQs and the Windows installation guide, Docker Desktop is free for personal use, education, non-commercial open-source projects, and commercial use by a business with fewer than 250 employees and less than $10 million in annual revenue. Both business conditions must be met for that small-business exception. A paid subscription is required outside those commercial eligibility limits and for government entities. Review the current terms for your situation before installing it for work.

Docker’s pricing page, accessed October 4, 2026, lists Docker Pro at $11 per user per month when billed monthly or $9 per user per month when billed annually; Team at $16 monthly or $15 annually; and Business at $24 annually per user, with no monthly self-service price shown in the comparison. These are listed plan prices, not a determination of which subscription a particular organization needs. Compare current plan features and terms on Docker’s pricing page.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Docker Hub pull limits to consider

Docker’s Plans FAQs state that authenticated Docker Personal users have a limit of 100 image pulls per hour, while unauthenticated users have a limit of 10 pulls per hour per IP address; paid plans have no hourly pull limit. These service limits can affect automated builds or teams that retrieve many images. Check Docker’s current FAQ before relying on them, because limits can change.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.