I'm trying to learn Docker, but I want to do it without downloading any software. I previously had access to a free event at KodeKloud that included labs, but it ended before I could get significant learning done. I've heard some suggestions, like Play with Docker, but it seems to have been deprecated as of March 1, 2026, and now requires Docker Desktop, which is not what I'm looking for. Are there any other platforms or resources available where I can learn Docker in an interactive way?
4 Answers
Have you checked out YouTube? There are many tutorials on Docker available there. Also, you might be able to spin up a Digital Ocean droplet for about $5 a month to get hands-on experience without local installation.
Since Play with Docker is deprecated, you might want to look into iximiuz or Google Cloud Shell as alternatives. They can provide free access to Docker environments. You can follow the labs at Training Play with Docker to get practical experience.
If you're on Windows, you might skip Docker Desktop and use WSL 2 instead. It's a Linux environment that gives you a better feel for real-world scenarios. I suggest finding a project you're passionate about to guide your learning, like setting up home automation with Docker containers. Also, check out NetworkChuck on YouTube; he has great beginner tutorials on Docker and Docker Compose that can help you.
I primarily run my Docker workflow on Linux, and honestly, Docker Desktop isn't necessary. It’s totally doable with a Linux setup even if you're on Windows. Just dive into Docker in a Linux environment, and it’ll provide a much more authentic experience.
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