Docker Desktop

Docker Desktop provides the GUI, Kubernetes cluster, and extensions for Docker. 2025 features improved Resource Saver mode and AI Extensions.

When to Use

• Local K8s: One-click Kubernetes cluster.
• Visual Management: View container logs, stats, and files in a GUI.
• Extensions: Install tools like "Disk Usage" or "Snyk" directly in Docker Desktop.

Core Concepts

Dashboard

View running containers.

Dev Environments

Share repeatable dev setups.

Resource Saver

Automatically reduces CPU/RAM usage when idle (essential for Mac performance).

Best Practices (2025)

Do:

• Enable VirtioFS: On Mac, this drastically speeds up file sharing.
• Use Extensions: Usage analysis tools are helpful.
• Login: To access Docker Hub rate limits.

Don't:

• Don't ignore updates: Security patches are frequent.

References

• Docker Desktop Manual