Docker WINDOWS network_mode=host | Beta running

In the desktop version, Docker WINDOWS network_mode=host is now possible, so you can already use it in the beta version.

Host network driver

When you use host network mode for a container, the network stack of that container is not isolated from the Docker host (the container shares the host’s network namespace), and the container is not assigned its own IP address. For example, if you run a container that binds to port 80 and you use “host”, the container’s application will be available on port 80 on the host’s IP address.

Note

Since the container does not have its own IP address when networked in host mode, the port mapping does not take effect and the -p, –publish, -P and –publish-all options are ignored and generate a warning instead:

WARNING: Published ports are discarded when host network mode is used

The host network driver only worked on Linux hosts until now, but is available as a beta function on Docker Desktop from version 4.29 and higher.

General information on Network_mode=host

Users of Docker Desktop for Windows often face the problem that the desired container (application) requires the “host” mode. Now in many cases you can get the whole thing running without “host” mode by editing ports and options.

Some smart home applications such as “Homebridge” or “Home Assistant” insist on “host” mode. You can get them to run without “host”, but not everything will work.

Docker Desktop Beta: “host” mode

For example, I got “Home Assistant” to run under Docker for WINDOWS, and the Pi-Hole is currently running stable in “host” mode.

Switch on Beta network_mode

First, make sure that you are logged into the Docker Desktop for WINDOWS. If this is not the case, log in (top right) “Sign in”. If you do not yet have an account with Docker, you must create one. The Docker Beta Futures require this as a prerequisite.

As a private person you are entitled to the free “Personal” account. If you run a company, take a look at the corresponding account models to see which one is suitable for you.

If you are logged in, you can switch it on under “Settings” -> “Futures development” -> “Enable host networking“. Restart Docker after the change so that the changes take effect.

Notes on beta versions

Beta versions are future software versions provided by the manufacturer specifically for testing purposes. They are used to track down errors, which is why it is not unusual for them to still contain errors themselves. This is often overlooked in the modern user world.

Beta versions are in no way suitable for live operation! Use them at your own risk. It is strongly recommended that you use a reliable backup system and keep an up-to-date backup of the latest stable version.

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