How to Install Docker Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04 LTE Linux

Learn how to install *Docker Desktop* on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS Linux in this step-by-step tutorial. Docker Desktop provides an easy way to manage containers, images, and Kubernetes directly from your Linux environment. This guide covers the complete installation process, from prerequisites to running Docker Desktop for the first time.

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What is Docker Desktop?
Docker Desktop is a user-friendly application for managing Docker containers and Kubernetes clusters. It includes a graphical user interface (GUI), making it accessible for developers and IT professionals, and supports seamless integration with development workflows.

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Steps to Install Docker Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04

#### 1. *Update System Packages*
Start by updating your system:
```bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
```

#### 2. *Install Required Dependencies*
Install the required dependencies for Docker Desktop:
```bash
sudo apt install apt-transport-https ca-certificates curl software-properties-common -y
```

#### 3. *Install Docker Engine*
Add Docker’s official GPG key and repository:
```bash
curl -fsSL | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg
echo "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture) signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg] $(lsb_release -cs) stable" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list - /dev/null
```
Then install Docker Engine:
```bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt install docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io -y
```

#### 4. *Download Docker Desktop Package*
Download the latest `.deb` package for Docker Desktop:
```bash
wget [version]-amd64.deb
```
Replace `[version]` with the latest version number available on Docker’s official website.

#### 5. *Install Docker Desktop*
Install the downloaded package using:
```bash
sudo apt install ./docker-desktop-[version]-amd64.deb
```

#### 6. *Add Your User to the Docker Group*
Ensure non-root users can access Docker:
```bash
sudo usermod -aG docker $USER
```
Restart your system for the changes to take effect.

#### 7. *Start Docker Desktop*
Launch Docker Desktop from your applications menu or using the terminal:
```bash
systemctl --user start docker-desktop
```

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Verify Installation
Confirm Docker Desktop is running:
```bash
docker --version
docker-compose --version
```

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Additional Configuration
*Enable Kubernetes:* Access settings in Docker Desktop to enable Kubernetes if required.
*Update Docker Desktop:* Regularly check for updates to keep your system secure and efficient.

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Benefits of Docker Desktop
Simplifies container management with a GUI.
Supports Kubernetes clusters for development.
Seamless integration with development tools and CI/CD pipelines.

Docker Desktop enhances containerization on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, making it easier than ever to build, test, and deploy applications.