Getting Started
Install Dockerman and connect to your first Docker or Podman runtime in minutes.
Use this page to install Dockerman and make your first connection. If you are on Windows and want to avoid Docker Desktop, use the built-in WSL2 path in the Windows platform guide: Windows.
Prerequisites
A Docker or Podman runtime must be available before you can manage containers. Dockerman auto-detects which runtime is running and adapts the UI accordingly. On Windows, Dockerman can provision a Docker Engine for you through the built-in WSL2 path in the Windows platform guide.
Install
Download the DMG
Download the macOS DMG from the Download page.
Open and drag to Applications
Open the DMG, then drag Dockerman into Applications.
Launch Dockerman
Launch Dockerman from Applications or Spotlight.
Download the MSI
Download the Windows MSI from the Download page.
Run the installer
Run the installer and follow the prompts.
Launch Dockerman
Launch Dockerman, then use the WSL2 Setup Wizard on first launch if you want the built-in Docker Engine path. See the Windows platform guide.
Install the package
Install the package that matches your distro. Use the .deb, .rpm, or AppImage build, then follow the Linux platform guide.
Add your user to the docker group
Run:
sudo usermod -aG docker $USERLog out and back in so the new group membership takes effect.
Launch Dockerman
Launch Dockerman from your desktop menu or by running dockerman.
First launch
The connect dialog
Dockerman tries local Docker automatically and shows progress or errors.
Pick a runtime source
Choose the local socket, a TCP endpoint, or an SSH host. Set the runtime preference to Auto, Docker, or Podman. Auto detects whichever runtime is available, trying Docker first then Podman.
Data initialization
Dockerman loads containers, images, networks, volumes, and Compose projects in parallel.
The dashboard
Review a snapshot of running and stopped containers, plus live charts.
Next steps
Containers
Learn container lifecycle management.
Kubernetes
Move into workloads, services, config, and debugging.
Platform guides
Configure the Windows WSL2 path.
Troubleshooting
Resolve setup and connection problems.
System requirements
| Platform | Minimum version | Architecture |
|---|---|---|
| macOS | 11 (Big Sur) | Intel, Apple Silicon, Universal |
| Windows | 10 (1903) / 11 | x86_64 |
| Linux | kernel 5.x | x86_64, aarch64 |
A Docker daemon (Engine 20.10+) or Podman (4.0+) must be available before you start managing containers; on Windows, Dockerman can provision Docker through the optional WSL2 path. Kubernetes support uses the optional k3d bundle.