How to switch to windows containers with docker for windows toolbox

Question

I have installed docker for windows toolbox on windows 7. I am unable to switch to windows container using docker menu as the docker icon is not available in systray. Docker service is also not available. Docker CLI executable isn't available on any folder.

Answer 1

Docker toolbox includes docker machine to run docker inside of a Linux VM. There is no option to run native Windows containers with this install.

To run native Windows containers, you need a HyperV based install on Windows 10 or Server 2016. Check out the official docker page and download it.

Answer 2

Docker Toolbox installs a VirtualBox VM in which a minimal Linux is installed to run Docker Linux containers.

Running Native Windows containers requires Windows 10 professional, or Windows Server 2016.

Docker for Windows allows you to toggle between "Linux" and "Windows" containers, but also requires Windows 10 Professional or Enterprise