Docker has revolutionized the way developers and tech enthusiasts build, ship, and run applications. Traditionally, Linux has been the go-to platform for containerization, lauded for its simplicity and versatility. But—and here’s the juicy part—container magic isn’t exclusively a Linux privilege anymore. Thanks to advances like Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL2) and Docker Desktop, you can spin up and manage Docker containers natively on a Windows 11 machine, blending the world of Linux and Windows into seamless harmony.
If you’ve already waded through the setup of WSL2 and Docker Desktop (which we won’t lie, can be slightly painstaking), you’re on the golden path to transforming your Windows 11 PC into a productivity powerhouse. Below, we break down five killer Docker containers you should absolutely consider running on your Windows 11 system—and why they’re more than just neat software; they’re game-changers.
So which containers do you run on your PC? Are you a networking aficionado wrangling traffic, or more of a creative type unleashing design projects? Share your container picks and pro tips below! Let’s keep the conversation—and containerization—flowing.
Source: XDA 5 Docker containers you should be using on your Windows 11 PC
If you’ve already waded through the setup of WSL2 and Docker Desktop (which we won’t lie, can be slightly painstaking), you’re on the golden path to transforming your Windows 11 PC into a productivity powerhouse. Below, we break down five killer Docker containers you should absolutely consider running on your Windows 11 system—and why they’re more than just neat software; they’re game-changers.
1. Penpot: The Self-Hosted Design Wizard
Designing graphics and UI mockups doesn’t need to hinge on premium subscriptions or invasive software. Meet Penpot, an SVG-based design and prototyping tool that puts control back in your hands. Think of it as a self-hosted alternative to design staples like Figma and Adobe Illustrator. But instead of holding your files hostage on a server somewhere, Penpot lives happily in your Docker container.- Supported Formats: SVG, CSS, and HTML editing for coders dabbling in UI.
- Features: Prototyping with trigger-action interactions, seamless connections between boards, and a flood of community-generated templates.
- Why It’s Cool: You’ll love its robust plugin and template ecosystem, especially if you want to transition from expensive, proprietary tools.
2. Nextcloud: Your Own Private Cloud
Tired of shelling out subscription fees to store your data online? Enter Nextcloud, the quintessential solution for creating your very own cloud storage platform. Beyond dodging costly fees, Nextcloud ensures your files remain fully under your control—on your home network, no less.- Core Features: File synchronization across devices, native mobile apps, and a collaboration-friendly interface.
- Expandability: Hundreds of extensions from the Nextcloud app store, ranging from productivity tools to entertainment integrations.
- Why It’s Game-Changing: Privacy-first design and no reliance on Big Tech servers. Think Google Drive, but completely yours.
3. Joplin: Note-Taking, Reinvented
Whether you’re jotting down quick ideas or meticulously creating a knowledge base, Joplin is a robust note-taking app that punches well above its weight. As good as the cloud-hosted Joplin is, you can level up by self-hosting your own instance as a Docker container.- Markdown at Its Best: Solid support for markdown notes that can be tagged and organized effortlessly.
- Private Syncing: Use Docker to enable syncing between desktop and mobile apps without entrusting a third-party service.
- Alternatives Worth Mentioning: Want something a little different? TriliumNext Notes is another Docker-compatible self-hosted knowledge management tool.
4. LibreOffice: A Free Office Powerhouse
If the thought of subscribing to Microsoft Office 365 makes your wallet cry, consider LibreOffice as your no-cost savior. This productivity suite is already beloved on desktops, but when you containerize it with Docker, you'll unlock an extra layer of versatility.- OS Compatibility: Works beautifully across Windows, Linux, and macOS ecosystems.
- Features: Handles documents, spreadsheets, and slides with ease, plus compatibility with an array of file formats (including Microsoft’s proprietary formats, like .docx and .xlsx).
- Why Containerize LibreOffice?: Containerization isolates LibreOffice from your core OS, so you can keep this productivity suite running smoothly and independently.
5. Linux Distros and More: Containers for OS Experimentation
Yes, Docker can even handle entire operating systems. Why stop at running apps when you can isolate full Linux distributions—or even macOS, if you’re feeling adventurous? This opens up an ocean of possibilities for testing, development, and exploration.- Distros to Try: Ubuntu, Alpine Linux, Elementary OS, Arch Linux, openSUSE... take your pick!
- Why Use Distro Containers?: They’re isolated, lightweight, and excellent for low-overhead development zones. Want to mess around with Linux but hate virtual machine lag? Docker’s your golden ticket.
- Wildcard: Dreaming big? With some advanced tinkering and gray-area exploits, it’s even possible to containerize macOS (though this is, shall we say… unconventional).
Honorable Mentions You Can’t Ignore
Got a taste for Docker but want to supercharge your home setup? Consider these additional containers:- WireGuard, Pi-Hole: Perfect for boosting network security and blocking ads system-wide.
- Immich, Jellyfin: Build your own media server to rival services like Plex or Emby.
- Gitea, Code Server, Nginx: The ultimate toolkit for developers to transform any machine into a coding sanctuary.
Final Thoughts: Is Docker Desktop the Future for Windows 11 Users?
Running Docker on Windows 11 doesn’t just bridge the gap between two platforms; it breaks down the walls entirely. And as you’ve seen with containers like Penpot, Nextcloud, and Joplin, there’s a lot you can achieve beyond development pipelines. Self-hosting is no longer just for Linux-ey bearded sysadmins in dimly lit basements. With just a bit of effort, your Windows 11 PC can elevate to a whole new tier of efficiency, privacy, and versatility.So which containers do you run on your PC? Are you a networking aficionado wrangling traffic, or more of a creative type unleashing design projects? Share your container picks and pro tips below! Let’s keep the conversation—and containerization—flowing.
Source: XDA 5 Docker containers you should be using on your Windows 11 PC
