Open your terminal and run the following command to download and install the official Docker Desktop application: brew install --cask docker Use code with caution.
Check that both the client and engine are running by checking the version: docker --version Use code with caution. 2. Install Docker CLI Only (Advanced)
If you use this method, you must pair it with a lightweight container runtime like Colima : brew install docker colima Use code with caution. Start the Runtime: colima start Use code with caution. download docker brew
Follow the on-screen prompts to grant privileged access and enter your system password when asked.
This creates a minimal Linux virtual machine in the background that handles the container execution for your CLI. Comparison: Cask vs. Formula brew install --cask docker brew install docker Yes (via Docker Desktop) No (CLI only) GUI Included? Ease of Use High (All-in-one) Moderate (Requires separate runtime) Best For Daily development and UI management Minimalist setups or remote server management Troubleshooting Common Issues Brew install docker does not include docker engine? Open your terminal and run the following command
Depending on whether you want a full graphical user interface or a lightweight terminal-only setup, there are two primary ways to download and install Docker using brew . 1. Install Docker Desktop (Recommended)
This is the standard installation for most users. It includes the Docker Engine, the Command Line Interface (CLI), and the Docker Desktop dashboard for managing containers visually. Install Docker CLI Only (Advanced) If you use
Installing Docker via Homebrew is the preferred method for many macOS power users because it simplifies updates and management through a single command-line interface.
