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How to Install Applications with Docker on Windows ​

Most open-source AI applications require extensive technical knowledge and some luck to deploy locally. Python-based applications are particularly demanding about runtime environments - direct installation on your computer often fails due to "environment incompatibility" issues.

We've created automated installation processes that accommodate various complex Windows environments, but you might still encounter special cases where the application won't run properly. In such situations, Docker installation is recommended. macOS systems are naturally more compatible with Python applications and typically don't require Docker.

Download Docker from the official website: https://www.docker.com/

Important: Docker requires specific hardware and system version requirements. Its installation and usage involve certain complexity. If you're unfamiliar with Docker technology, proceed with caution and consider seeking assistance from someone experienced with Docker.

Advantages of Using Docker ​

  1. Environment Consistency: Containers package applications with all dependencies, eliminating compatibility issues caused by configuration differences.
  2. Resource Isolation & Lightweight: Using kernel-level virtualization, containers achieve process-level isolation while consuming far fewer resources than traditional VMs, enabling multiple concurrent applications.
  3. Rapid Deployment & Version Management: Launch applications with one command and easily switch between different image versions, significantly improving workflow efficiency.

Installing and Using Docker on Windows ​

The Windows Docker installation involves multiple steps with variations between Home and Pro editions. This guide provides a universal approach suitable for both versions.

Part 2: WSL2 and Docker Installation Process ​

System Preparation ​

  1. Hardware Requirements:

    • 64-bit processor (with SLAT support)
    • Minimum 4GB RAM
    • Virtualization enabled in BIOS (VT-x/AMD-V)

  2. Software Requirements:

    • Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education (Build 19041+)
    • Windows 11 24H2 recommended for optimal compatibility

Enabling WSL2 ​

  1. Run PowerShell as Administrator and execute:

    powershell
    wsl --install

    This automatically installs WSL2 and the default Ubuntu distribution. Restart your computer after installation.

  2. Verify WSL2 Installation:

    powershell
    wsl --list --verbose

    Confirm your Linux distribution shows "Running" with version 2.

Installing Docker Desktop ​

  1. Download Installer: Visit Docker's official download page and select "Download for Windows".

  2. Run Installation Wizard:

    • Check "Use the WSL 2 based engine"
    • Recommended: Enable "Start Docker Desktop when you log in"
    • Restart after installation completes.

  3. Configure WSL2 Integration:

    • Right-click Docker tray icon, select "Settings"
    • Navigate to "Resources > WSL Integration"
    • Enable "Enable integration with my default WSL distro"
    • Click "Apply & Restart"

  4. Resource Allocation:

The .wslconfig file in your Windows user directory (e.g., C:\Users\YourName.wslconfig) controls global WSL 2 settings for all distributions, including Docker Desktop's. Create this file if nonexistent. For AI applications generating videos/images, allocate more memory while maintaining system stability:

[wsl2]
# CPU cores (default: all available)
processors = 4

# Memory allocation (default: 50% of total RAM)
memory = 14GB

# Swap file configuration (redirect to D: if C: space is limited)
swap = 16GB
swapFile = D:\\work\\temp\\wsl-swap.vhdx
  1. Verify Installation:
    powershell
    docker --version
docker run hello-world
    Successful installation shows Docker version and "Hello from Docker!" message.

(1) Accessing Image Repositories ​

We maintain application image repositories available via pull commands, like FramePack for CUDA 12.8:

bash
docker pull crpi-ru0fy7yg2nq6feyc.cn-shanghai.personal.cr.aliyuncs.com/lmdown/framepack:1.0.0-gpu-cu128

Example:

Complete image list and demo available at AI Application Docker Images.

Part 4: Docker Mode Installation via Our Client ​

Simplified graphical interface installation. Currently in beta testing, coming soon.

Part 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues ​

  1. WSL2 Startup Failure:

    • Verify BIOS virtualization is enabled
    • Execute wsl --shutdown then restart WSL

  2. Permission Errors:

    • Run Docker client as administrator
    • Add current user to Docker group (execute sudo usermod -aG docker $USER in WSL)

For additional technical support, please contact our technical team. tech@daiyl.com