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3. Installing Docker

Docker is software for running containers. Each container is like a magic box that runs an app inside of it.

You need to install Docker itself on your computer so that it can be used to run Cardinal Home Server in a container. There are a few different ways to install Docker; the easiest ones are mentioned below. More experienced users are encouraged to handle their Docker setup however they see fit.

Easiest option for Windows and macOS

If you are using Windows or macOS then the easiest option is to go with Docker Desktop. It's a regular desktop app that will feel familiar to use, and it's easy to uninstall if you don't want it anymore.

Here's the download link.

Easiest option for Linux

Visit this page and follow the instructions for your distribution.

Podman

RHEL based distributions include podman as an alternative to Docker, and it will work with Cardinal Home Server. In this case you don't need to install Docker.

Other options

Consult Docker's installation page for more options. They all work with Cardinal.

Once Docker is running, you can move on to the next step.