Docker desktop is unable to start docker engine (Debian 12.9, Docker Desktop 4.39.0)

Docker Desktop
1

Hi, my Docker Desktop app is unable to start the Docker Engine. The message “Starting the Docker Engine” along with a loading indicator appears indefinitely.

I followed the installation guide from the official site and completed all the steps. The first time, it worked well, but after quitting and reopening the app, it fails to start the Docker Engine.

A workaround for this issue is to remove the .docker/desktop directory. After doing so, the app prompts the license agreement again and starts with the engine running.

The workaround is only partial and will remove all the data so it is only to run the app.

OS Version: Linux Debian 12.9.0
App version: 4.39.0 (184744)

Steps to reproduce:

  1. Install docker as described in Debian | Docker Docs
  2. Install docker desktop as described in Debian | Docker Docs
  3. Run Docker Desktop
  4. Quit Docker Desktop
  5. Open Docker Desktop again

Actual Result: Docker Desktop runs, but the Docker Engine does not start and remains stuck on “Engine starting…”.
Expected Result: Docker Desktop runs, and the Docker Engine starts successfully (“Engine started”).

How to fix it?

1 Like
2

Hello,
I got the same issue on the Debian 12.2.0
Docker Desktop version 4.38.0
Your workaround also works for me.

3

It seams you found the workaround that other users could have recommended on the forum, although deleting that folder also deletes all data if I remember correctly, but I’m not on Linux now. If it is a bug in the upgrade process, you could let the developers know about it on GitHub

4

You are correct. The workaround is only partial and will remove all the data so it is only to run the app. Btw. how to edit my post? :slight_smile: I would like to add that info to be aware of the outcome of the workaround.

5

New users can edit their posts only for 24 hours. You can send me what you want to modify and I can add it to your message. I will contact you in PM.