In this guide, we’ll show you the easiest way to install Docker on Ubuntu. If you’re looking to get started with Docker on Ubuntu, you’re in the right place!
Unlocking the Steps of Installing Docker on Ubuntu
A streamlining the setup process so you can quickly leverage Docker’s powerful containerization features. Whether you’re new to Docker or just want a hassle-free installation, follow these steps to have Docker up and running in no time.

Option 1: Installing Docker from the Official Repository
Step 1: Updating the Software Repository
To begin, launch a terminal window, then update the local repository:
sudo apt update
Wait for the process to complete.
Step 2: Downloading Dependencies
Run the following commands to enable HTTPS access to the Docker repositories on your Ubuntu 20.04 system:
sudo apt-get install apt-transport-https ca-certificates curl software-properties-common
The above-mentioned command:
• Permits file and data transfers over https for the package manager.
Permits security certificate verification by the system.
• Installs curl, a tool for transferring data.
• Adds scripts for managing software.
Step 3: Adding Docker’s GPG Key
Add the GPG key after that to confirm the software package’s legitimacy:
curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu/gpg | sudo apt-key add –
Step 4: Installing the Docker Repository
Now install the Docker repository using the command:
sudo add-apt-repository “deb [arch=amd64] https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu $(lsb_release -cs) stable”
The command installs the latest repository for your specific Ubuntu release (in this case, 20.04 Focal Fossa).
Step 5: Installing the Latest Docker
Start by updating the repository again:
sudo apt update
Now you can install the latest Docker version with:
sudo apt-get install docker-ce
Step 6: Verifying Docker Installation
To verify the installation, verify the Docker version:
docker –version
It should show the Docker version, as in the image above.
Step 7: Enable Docker Service
Use these commands to launch the Docker service:
sudo systemctl start docker
Enable Docker to run at startup with:
sudo systemctl enable docker
Option 2: Installing Docker from Default Repositories
Step 1: Updating the Local Repository
Open a terminal window and update the local repository with:
sudo apt update
Step 2: Uninstalling Old Docker Versions
Before installing the software, make sure you remove any old Docker packages on your Ubuntu 20.04 by running the command:
sudo apt-get remove docker docker-engine docker.io
Step 3: Installing Docker
Now let’s install Docker on Ubuntu 20.04. Enter the following command in the window of the terminal:
sudo apt install docker.io
Input y and hit Enter to validate the installation. Once the installation is completed, the output notifies you Docker has been installed.
Step 4: Checking Docker Installation
To verify the installation, check the Docker version:
docker –version
