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Using Docker with WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)

This guide provides instructions for setting up Docker and running Open WebUI in a Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) environment.

Step 1: Install WSL​

If you haven't already, install WSL by following the official Microsoft documentation:

Install WSL

Step 2: Install Docker Desktop​

Docker Desktop is the easiest way to get Docker running in a WSL environment. It handles the integration between Windows and WSL automatically.

  1. Download Docker Desktop: https://www.docker.com/products/docker-desktop/

  2. Install Docker Desktop: Follow the installation instructions, making sure to select the "WSL 2" backend during the setup process.

Step 3: Configure Docker Desktop for WSL​

  1. Open Docker Desktop: Start the Docker Desktop application.

  2. Enable WSL Integration:

    • Go to Settings > Resources > WSL Integration.
    • Make sure the "Enable integration with my default WSL distro" checkbox is selected.
    • If you are using a non-default WSL distribution, select it from the list.

Step 4: Run Open WebUI​

Now you can run Open WebUI by following the standard Docker instructions from within your WSL terminal.

docker run -d -p 3000:8080 --add-host=host.docker.internal:host-gateway -v open-webui:/app/backend/data -e WEBUI_SECRET_KEY=your-secret-key --name open-webui --restart always ghcr.io/open-webui/open-webui:main

Important Notes​

  • Run Docker Commands in WSL: Always run docker commands from your WSL terminal, not from PowerShell or Command Prompt.

  • File System Access: When using volume mounts (-v), make sure the paths are accessible from your WSL distribution.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a warranty, guarantee, or contractual commitment. Open WebUI is provided "as is." See your license for applicable terms.