We have reports from some users that Docker Desktop does not start after upgrading WSL to version 2.5.7.

Upgrading to the latest Docker Desktop (4.42) fixes the issue.

If you need to stay on an older version of Docker Desktop, you can downgrade WSL to version 2.4.13:

1. Quit Docker Desktop
2. Ensure all Docker-related processes are stopped using the Task Manager
   ⚠️ If any processes remain after quitting Docker Desktop, end them via Task Manager. Docker service if running does not need to be stopped.
3. [Optional but recommended] Backup Docker Images and Containers
   If Docker Desktop is running: Follow the Docker Backup and Restore Guide
   OR
   If Docker Desktop is not running: Backup WSL Linux distributions, and copy %LOCALAPPDATA%/Docker/wsl/disk/docker_data.vhdx (your containers and images) to another location.
4. Uninstall WSL Version 2.5.7
   From a cmd terminal started with "Run as administrator" (if you are not already an administrator user), run the following commands:
   wsl --shutdown
wsl --uninstall
5. Download and install WSL version 2.4.13 (you will need administrator privilege to install)
   The installer can be found here: WSL 2.4.13 Installer
6. Verify WSL Version
   Confirm that the installation was successful by checking the version:
   wsl --version
7. Launch Docker Desktop
   Your containers and images should remain intact after the downgrade. If you find any missing, restore them from your backup.