Ever wish you had a Docker dev workstation in Azure? About two months ago, we introduced the Azure Kung Fu VM, and judging by the views of that article many of you gave it a try.
Today, I wanted to share a different version of that VM running Docker Desktop. You can now use the same one-click method to start a deployment in Azure and have a fully functional docker desktop. To make this possible, we are using a V3 virtual machine size in Azure, which allows for nested virtualization.
On the GitHub repo, you can click the Deploy to Azure button and this will start the deployment, or click the button below:

You can also view the ARM Template for the VM at the GitHub repo: https://github.com/Build5Nines/azure-kung-fu-dockervm

Make sure to add your username, password, and the IP Address of your local workstation (this will secure your machine using a Network Security Group). You can use IP Chicken to find your address.

Once the VM deployment is complete use the Azure Portal and connect to your VM using RDP. Then open the Computer Management Tool in Windows 10 to add your user name to the docker-users group.

Logout of the VM to have the group membership take effect, and then reconnect using RDP. At this point, you can double-click on Docker for Windows. It will take a few minutes for docker to start and you will see a few pop-ups.


With Docker now running on your Azure VM, you can start working or complete the tutorial on how to get started.

You will also want to log into Docker Hub, so that you can download and run containers that are publicly available.

Happy Containers,