Introduction
Docker Desktop 4.39.0 is here, bringing a host of new features designed to enhance developer productivity, streamline workflows, and improve security. This release continues Docker’s commitment to providing efficient, secure, and reliable tools for building, sharing, and running applications.
Key Features in Docker Desktop 4.39.0
Docker AI Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) and Kubernetes Support
The Docker AI Agent, introduced in previous versions, has been upgraded to support MCP and Kubernetes. MCP enables AI-powered applications to access external data sources, perform operations with third-party services, and interact with local filesystems. Kubernetes support allows the AI Agent to manage namespaces, deploy services, and analyze pod logs.
General Availability of Docker Desktop CLI
The Docker Desktop CLI is now officially available, offering developers a powerful command-line interface for managing containers, images, and volumes. The new docker desktop logs command simplifies log management.
Platform Flag for Multi-Platform Image Management
Docker Desktop now supports the –platform flag on docker load and docker save commands, enabling seamless import and export of multi-platform images.
Enhanced Containerization Across Programming Languages
The Docker AI Agent can now containerize applications written in JavaScript, Python, Go, C#, and more. It analyzes projects to identify services, programming languages, and package managers, making containerization effortless.
Security Improvements
Docker Desktop 4.39.0 addresses critical vulnerabilities, such as CVE-2025-1696, ensuring proxy authentication credentials are no longer exposed in plaintext.
Developer Productivity: The upgraded Docker AI Agent simplifies container management and troubleshooting, saving developers time and effort.
Multi-Platform Flexibility: The –platform flag ensures compatibility across diverse environments, making Docker Desktop a versatile tool for modern development.
Enhanced Security: By addressing vulnerabilities, Docker Desktop 4.39.0 reinforces its position as a secure platform for application development.
Conclusion
Docker Desktop 4.39.0 is a significant step forward, offering smarter tools, improved security, and greater flexibility for developers. Whether you’re managing Kubernetes clusters or containerizing applications, this release has something for everyone.
Exploring the Latest Features in Microsoft Windows Server Insider Preview Builds
Microsoft’s Windows Server Insider Preview Builds are a treasure trove of innovation and advanced features designed to enhance performance, security, and flexibility for IT professionals. Today, we’re diving into the latest updates and new features introduced in the Windows Server 2025 Insider Preview Build. Here you find more on What’s New in Microsoft Windows Server 2025 🚀
Here are some Highlights of new Windows Server 2025 Insider Preview features:
Enhanced Security with Delegated Managed Service Accounts (dMSA)
One of the standout features in this build is the introduction ofDelegated Managed Service Accounts (dMSA). This new account type allows for migration from traditional service accounts to machine accounts with managed and fully randomized keys. By linking authentication to the device identity, dMSA helps prevent credential harvesting through compromised accounts, a common issue with traditional service accounts.
Windows Admin Center (WAC) Integration
Starting with this build, users can now download and install the Windows Admin Center (WAC)directly from the Windows Server Desktop. This in-OS app simplifies the installation process and provides a seamless experience for managing your server infrastructure.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Windows Server 2025 now supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect mice, keyboards, headsets, and other peripherals directly to the server. This feature enhances flexibility and convenience for server management.
DTrace for Real-Time Performance Monitoring
The new build includes DTrace, a powerful command-line utility that enables real-time performance monitoring and troubleshooting. DTrace allows users to dynamically instrument both kernel and user-space code without modifying the code itself, supporting a range of data collection and analysis techniques.
Improved Upgrade Experience
Upgrading to Windows Server 2025 has never been easier. The build supports in-place upgrades from Windows Server 2012 R2 and later versions, allowing you to upgrade up to four versions at a time. This streamlined upgrade process ensures a smooth transition to the latest server version.
Feedback Hub for User Input
The new Feedback Hub app is now available for Server Desktop users. This app allows users to submit feedback or report issues directly to Microsoft, helping the development team understand user experiences and improve future builds.
SMB over QUIC and Alternative Ports
The build introduces SMB over QUIC with support for alternative ports. This feature enhances security and performance by allowing SMB traffic to use custom-defined ports instead of the default UDP/443 port.
Enhanced Desktop Experience
When you sign in for the first time, the desktop shell experience now conforms to the style and appearance of Windows 11. This visual update provides a familiar and modern interface for server administrators.
These new features and enhancements in the Windows Server 2025 Insider Preview Build demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for IT professionals. Whether you’re looking to improve security, streamline management, or enhance performance, the latest Windows Server Insider Preview Build has something to offer.
Stay tuned for more updates and features as Microsoft continues to innovate and improve its server offerings.
Conclusion:
Become a Microsoft Windows Server Insider and get all the newest features first to play with it in your test environment.
Introduction to Windows 11 with Copilot on Microsoft Surface Devices
Welcome to the exciting world of Windows 11, where innovation meets productivity with the combined power of Copilot and Microsoft’s Surface devices. In this blogpost, we’ll explore how Windows 11 enhances the user experience, and how pairing it with Copilot on a Surface Laptop or Surface Pro creates an unmatched synergy that transforms the way you work and play.
Windows 11 introduces a sleek, modern interface with a centered Start menu, rounded corners, and new iconography. The redesigned taskbar, Action Center, and widgets provide a more intuitive and streamlined experience, making navigation a breeze on the stunning high-resolution displays of Surface devices. With the Surface’s touch and pen capabilities, the new themes and wallpapers can be tailored to fit your unique style.
New Features and Improvements
Enhanced Touch and Pen Support
Surface devices are known for their exceptional touch and pen support, making Windows 11’s enhanced touch features even more impactful. Whether you’re using the Surface Pen for precise drawing or multitouch gestures to navigate seamlessly, the combination offers unparalleled interactivity.
Virtual Desktops and Snap Layouts
With Windows 11, organizing your workspace becomes effortless. The introduction of Snap Layouts and Snap Groups allows for better multitasking, perfectly complemented by the Surface’s spacious screen real estate. Virtual desktops let you create customized workspaces for different projects, maximizing productivity on the go.
Improved Gaming Capabilities
Gaming on a Surface Laptop or Surface Pro reaches new heights with Windows 11’s optimized gaming features. From DirectStorage for faster load times to Auto HDR for vibrant visuals, your gaming experience becomes more immersive and enjoyable.
What is the NPU, and how does it enhance performance.
The Neural Processing Unit(NPU) is a newer addition to modern Windows devices and plays a key role in handling tasks related to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. It is designed to speed up complex processes such as facial recognition, voice assistance, and data analysis, which require advanced computation. The NPU’s ability to offload these tasks from the CPU and GPU allows for faster, more efficient operation of the entire system.
Integrating Copilot into Windows 11 on Surface devices brings a new level of intelligence and assistance. Copilot can help you with tasks like setting reminders, generating content, and providing insights. With improved speech recognition and the power of the Surface’s microphones and speakers, interacting with Copilot feels natural and efficient.
Microsoft Office and AI
Windows 11 leverages AI to enhance productivity tools like Microsoft Office. Copilot can offer intelligent suggestions and insights, helping you create polished documents, manage emails, and stay organized, all while utilizing the Surface’s powerful hardware.
Security Enhancements
Security is paramount in Windows 11, with features like Windows Hello, Microsoft Defender, and BitLocker providing robust protection. The new Windows Security Center offers a comprehensive overview of security settings, ensuring your Surface device is always secure. Windows Hello takes full advantage of the Surface’s IR camera for quick and secure logins.
Windows 11 includes advanced virtualization capabilities through Hyper-V, allowing you to create and manage virtual machines with ease. This feature is particularly useful for developers, IT professionals, and power users who need to run multiple operating systems or isolated environments on their Surface devices.
Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) in Windows 11 provides a seamless way to run Linux distributions natively on your Surface device. WSL offers improved performance, compatibility, and integration with Windows tools, making it an essential feature for developers and tech enthusiasts.
WSL
Performance and Optimization
Windows 11 is designed to deliver improved performance and efficiency, with faster boot times, enhanced battery life, and better resource management. Surface devices leverage hardware advancements to provide a smoother and more responsive experience, ensuring you can work and play without interruptions.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of Windows 11 on your Surface device:
Keyboard Shortcuts: Utilize the Surface’s keyboard shortcuts to navigate quickly and efficiently.
Customization: Personalize your device with themes, wallpapers, and widgets that reflect your style.
Pen Shortcuts: Take advantage of Surface Pen shortcuts for quick access to apps and features.
Battery Optimization: Manage power settings to maximize battery life and keep your Surface running longer.
Troubleshooting: Use the Windows Security Center and Device Manager to diagnose and fix common issues.
Become a Windows Insider: Here you can test almost every week a new Windows 11 Insider Preview Build
Conclusion
Windows 11, combined with Copilot on Microsoft Surface devices, represents a significant leap forward in terms of design, functionality, and performance. The innovative features and improvements make it the operating system of choice for users around the world, providing a seamless and powerful experience that enhances every aspect of your digital life.
In the dynamic world of cloud computing, Microsoft continues to innovate with solutions that empower organizations to manage hybrid and multi-cloud environments effectively. One such groundbreaking solution is Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc. This technology is designed to simplify and enhance the management of persistent storage for Kubernetes clusters, providing a unified and adaptive approach to cloud storage.
What is Azure Container Storage Enabled by Azure Arc?
Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc is a first-party storage system designed for Arc-connected Kubernetes clusters. It serves as a native persistent storage solution, offering high availability, fault tolerance, and seamless data synchronization to Azure Blob Storage. This system is crucial for making Kubernetes clusters stateful, especially for Azure IoT Operations and other Arc services.
Key Features and Benefits
High Availability and Fault Tolerance: When configured as a 3-node cluster, Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc replicates data between nodes (triplication) to ensure high availability and tolerance to single node failures.
Data Synchronization to Azure: Data written to volumes is automatically tiered to Azure Blob Storage, including block blob, ADLSgen-2, or OneLake. This ensures that data is securely stored and easily accessible in the cloud.
Low Latency Operations: Arc services, such as Azure IoT Operations, can expect low latency for read and write operations, making it ideal for real-time applications.
Simple Connection: Customers can easily connect to an Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc volume using a CSI driver to start making Persistent Volume Claims against their storage.
Flexibility in Deployment: Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc can be deployed as part of Azure IoT Operations or as a standalone solution, providing flexibility to meet various deployment needs.
Platform Neutrality: This storage system can run on any Arc Kubernetes supported platform, including Ubuntu + CNCF K3s/K8s, Windows IoT + AKS-EE, and Azure Stack HCI + AKS-HCI and Azure Local.
Cache Volumes: The original offering, providing a reliable and fault-tolerant file system for Arc-connected Kubernetes clusters.
Edge Volumes: The newest offering, which includes Local Shared Edge Volumes and Cloud Ingest Edge Volumes. Local Shared Edge Volumes provide highly available, failover-capable storage local to your Kubernetes cluster, while Cloud Ingest Edge Volumes facilitate limitless data ingestion from edge to Blob storage.
Use Cases and Applications
Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc is particularly beneficial for organizations with hybrid and multi-cloud environments. It supports various use cases, including:
IoT Applications: Ensuring data integrity and synchronization in disconnected environments, making it ideal for IoT operations.
Edge Computing: Providing local storage for scratch space, temporary storage, and locally persistent data unsuitable for cloud destinations.
Data Ingestion: Facilitating seamless data transfer from edge to cloud, optimizing local resource utilization and reducing storage requirements.
Conclusion
Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc represents the future of hybrid cloud storage, offering seamless onboarding, unified management, and adaptive capabilities. By leveraging this technology, organizations can overcome the challenges of hybrid and multi-cloud environments, streamline operations, and drive innovation.
Whether you’re just starting your cloud journey or looking to optimize your existing infrastructure, Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc provides the tools and guidance you need to succeed. Embrace the power of this transformative solution and unlock new possibilities for your organization.
Jumpstart Drops is a good begin in your test environment, before you begin in production. Here you find a Jump start drop about “Create an Azure Container Storage enabled by Azure Arc Edge Volumes with CloudSync” by Anthony Joint.
In the ever-evolving world of software development, Docker Desktop for Windows has emerged as an indispensable tool for developers. This powerful platform simplifies the process of building, sharing, and running applications within containers, offering a host of features and benefits that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Let’s dive into what makes Docker Desktop for Windows a must-have for developers.
Easy Installation and Setup
One of the standout features of Docker Desktop for Windows is its straightforward installation process. With just a few clicks, developers can have Docker up and running on their Windows machines. The intuitive setup ensures that even those new to Docker can get started without a hitch.
Integrated GUI
Docker Desktop comes with a user-friendly Graphical User Interface (GUI) that makes managing containers, images, and settings a breeze. The GUI provides a visual representation of your Docker environment, allowing you to easily monitor and control your containers without needing to rely solely on command-line instructions.
Seamless Integration with WSL 2
For developers working with both Windows and Linux containers, Docker Desktop offers seamless integration with Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2). This integration allows you to switch between Linux and Windows containers effortlessly, leveraging the best of both worlds. WSL 2 provides a lightweight Linux kernel that runs alongside your Windows OS, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.
Resource Management
Docker Desktop includes robust resource management features, enabling developers to allocate CPU, memory, and disk resources to their containers. This ensures that your development environment remains responsive and efficient, even when running multiple containers simultaneously.
Automatic Updates
Docker Desktop Automatically check for updates.
Keeping your Docker environment up-to-date is crucial for security and performance. Docker Desktop simplifies this process with automatic updates, ensuring that you always have the latest features and security patches without manual intervention.
Docker Compose Integration
Docker Compose is a powerful tool for defining and running multi-container Docker applications. Docker Desktop integrates seamlessly with Docker Compose, allowing developers to easily manage complex applications with multiple services. This integration simplifies the orchestration of containers, making it easier to develop, test, and deploy applications.
Kubernetes Support
For developers looking to dive into the world of Kubernetes, Docker Desktop offers built-in support for Kubernetes. This feature allows you to run a single-node Kubernetes cluster on your local machine, providing a convenient environment for learning and experimentation. With Kubernetes support, you can develop and test containerized applications before deploying them to a production cluster.
Volume Management
Docker Desktop Volumes management
Managing data within containers is made simple with Docker Desktop’s volume management capabilities. You can easily create, manage, and share volumes between containers, ensuring that your data persists across container restarts and updates.
Benefits for Developers
Enhanced Productivity
Docker Desktop Dev Environments
Docker Desktop streamlines the development process by providing a consistent environment across different stages of development. This consistency reduces the “it works on my machine” problem, ensuring that applications run smoothly from development to production.
Simplified Collaboration
With Docker Desktop, sharing your development environment with team members is as simple as sharing a Docker image. This ensures that everyone on your team is working with the same setup, reducing discrepancies and improving collaboration.
Flexibility and Portability
Docker containers are inherently portable, allowing you to run your applications on any system that supports Docker. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for developers working in diverse environments or deploying applications across different platforms.
Docker Desktop provides a secure environment for running containers, isolating applications from the host system and each other. This isolation reduces the risk of security vulnerabilities and ensures that your development environment remains protected.
Conclusion
Docker Desktop for Windows is a game-changer for developers, offering a comprehensive suite of features that enhance productivity, simplify collaboration, and improve security. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting with containerization, Docker Desktop provides the tools you need to build, share, and run applications with ease. Embrace the power of Docker Desktop and take your development workflow to the next level.
Here you find more information about Docker Desktop:
The security baselines can be configured through PowerShell, Windows Admin Center, and Azure Policy. The OSConfig tool is a security configuration stack that uses a scenario-based approach to deliver and apply the desired security measures for your environment. The security baselines throughout the device life cycle can be applied using OSConfig starting from the initial deployment process.
To verify that the OSConfig module is installed, run the following command: Get-Module -ListAvailable -Name Microsoft.OSConfig
Here we check the Baseline Security Compliance: Get-OSConfigDesiredConfiguration -Scenario SecurityBaseline/WS2025/MemberServer | ft Name, @{ Name = “Status”; Expression={$_.Compliance.Status} }, @{ Name = “Reason”; Expression={$_.Compliance.Reason} } -AutoSize -Wrap
You will see that the Security Baseline is not Complaint.
Now we do the Security Baseline Compliance Check again:
Get-OSConfigDesiredConfiguration -Scenario SecurityBaseline/WS2025/MemberServer | ft Name, @{ Name = “Status”; Expression={$_.Compliance.Status} }, @{ Name = “Reason”; Expression={$_.Compliance.Reason} } -AutoSize -Wrap
Conclusion
With OSConfig you can set the default of Microsoft Security Baseline in a quick way. It’s important to test everything first in a test environment before you set these settings in production. Here you find more information on GitHub
GitHub Copilot Free edition for Microsoft VSCode is very handy to get started with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and make your own deployment scripts for Azure Cloud Services.
Here I asked for a bicep deployment script to deploy a Windows Server Insider Build into Azure Cloud.
What I really like is GitHub Copilot free speech extension in VSCode.
Now I can just Talk to Copilot and get the job done 🙂
GitHub Copilot free in VSCode is a very handy AI tool to save time in your project and can support your work.
Copilot can make mistakes by using wrong information or data, that’s why you have always do the checks yourself and test first before you use it in production. Happy Infrastructure as Code with GitHub Copilot Free edition for VSCode
Once upon a time, in a world where technology and holiday cheer intertwined, there was a bustling community of developers eagerly awaiting the latest updates from the Microsoft Windows 11 and Windows Server Insider programs. As the festive season approached, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation.
In the heart of this community were the Microsoft MVPs (Most Valuable Professionals) and Docker Captains, who were known for their expertise and passion for technology. They decided to come together to create something truly magical for developers around the world.
One snowy evening, as the MVPs and Docker Captains gathered around a virtual fireplace, they began to brainstorm ideas. “What if we could combine the power of Windows 11, Windows Server, and Docker Containers to create a seamless development experience?” suggested one MVP, their eyes twinkling with excitement.
The idea quickly gained momentum, and soon, the group was hard at work. They envisioned a world where developers could effortlessly build, test, and deploy applications using the latest features of Windows 11 and Windows Server, all within the flexible and scalable environment of Docker Containers.
With the help of the Insider programs, they gained early access to cutting-edge features and updates. The MVPs and Docker Captains worked tirelessly, sharing their knowledge and expertise to create a series of tutorials, guides, and sample projects. These resources were designed to help developers harness the full potential of Windows 11, Windows Server, and Docker Containers.
As the holiday season progressed, the community began to see the fruits of their labor. Developers from all corners of the globe started to adopt the new tools and techniques, marveling at the ease and efficiency they brought to their workflows. The combination of Windows 11’s sleek interface, Windows Server’s robust capabilities, and Docker Containers’ flexibility created a harmonious symphony of technology.
To celebrate their success, the MVPs and Docker Captains organized a virtual holiday party. Developers joined from far and wide, sharing stories of their experiences and the innovative projects they had created. The virtual room was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared sense of accomplishment.
As the night drew to a close, one of the Docker Captains raised a toast. “Here’s to the power of collaboration, the spirit of innovation, and the joy of the holiday season.May we continue to push the boundaries of technology and inspire developers everywhere.”
And so, the story of the Microsoft Windows 11 and Windows Server Insider Christmas, made possible by the dedication and expertise of the MVPs and Docker Captains, became a cherished tale in the developer community. It was a reminder that, with passion and teamwork, even the most ambitious dreams could come true.
Happy holidays, and may your coding adventures be merry and bright! 🎄💻🐳
The new AI Docker beta feature, known as “Ask Gordon,” allows you to interact with Docker’s AI assistant to get help, guidance, and answers to your Docker-related questions. Here’s how you can use it:
Using “Ask Gordon” in Docker CLI
Open your terminal or command line interface.
Use the command: docker ai.
This will activate the “Ask Gordon” feature, and you can type your questions or commands directly.
Using “Ask Gordon” in Docker Desktop
Open Docker Desktop.
Look for the “Ask Gordon” feature, which is integrated into the interface.
You can type your questions or requests in the provided input field.
Cloud and Datacenter Management Blog 