How to Install Docker on Debian 12 Bookworm

Learn how to install Docker on Debian 12 Bookworm step-by-step. Easy guide for beginners to set up Docker quickly and use containers like a pro!

What Is Docker and Why Should You Use It?

Docker is a tool that lets you run apps in small, isolated spaces called “containers.” Think of containers like tiny, portable boxes that hold everything an app needs to work. This makes apps easier to share and run on any computer. If you use Debian 12 Bookworm, installing Docker helps you build, test, and deploy apps faster.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to install Docker on Debian 12 in simple steps. No confusing tech jargon—just clear instructions. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Update Your Debian System
Before installing Docker, update your system. Open the terminal and type:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This command updates your package list and upgrades installed software. A fresh system avoids conflicts during Docker installation.

Wait for the process to finish. If asked to restart services, press Y and hit Enter.

Step 2: Install Required Packages
Docker needs extra packages to work smoothly. Run this command:

sudo apt install ca-certificates curl gnupg -y  

These packages help your Debian system securely connect to Docker’s servers.

Step 3: Add Docker’s Official GPG Key
Next, add Docker’s security key to your system. This ensures the software you download is safe. Type:

sudo install -m 0755 -d /etc/apt/keyrings  
curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/debian/gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /etc/apt/keyrings/docker.gpg  

Step 4: Set Up Docker’s Repository
Now, add Docker’s repository to your Debian sources. This lets your system find Docker packages. Run:

echo "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture) signed-by=/etc/apt/keyrings/docker.gpg] https://download.docker.com/linux/debian $(. /etc/os-release && echo "$VERSION_CODENAME") stable" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list > /dev/null

Step 5: Install Docker Engine
Update your package list again and install Docker:

sudo apt update  
sudo apt install docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io docker-buildx-plugin docker-compose-plugin -y

Wait for the installation to finish.

Step 6: Check If Docker Works
Test Docker by running the classic “Hello World” container:

sudo docker run hello-world

If you see a “Hello from Docker!” message, it works!

Step 7: Run Docker Without Sudo (Optional)
By default, Docker needs sudo to run. To use it without typing sudo every time, add your user to the docker group:

sudo usermod -aG docker $USER

Log out and log back in for this to take effect.

How to Use Docker: Basic Commands

• Start a container: docker run <image-name>
• List running containers: docker ps
• Stop a container: docker stop <container-id>
• Remove a container: docker rm <container-id>

For more commands, visit Docker’s official documentation.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Permission Denied? Ensure you added your user to the docker group and restarted your session.
• Installation Failed? Check your internet connection and repository setup.
• Hello-World Not Working? Try reinstalling Docker or check Docker’s forums.