WinBoat is a free, open-source tool that enables users to run Windows applications on Linux through a containerized virtual machine setup. It leverages Docker or Podman to provide a lightweight alternative to traditional emulation methods like Wine. The application targets users transitioning from Windows, particularly those on older systems.
WinBoat operates as a virtual machine with a containerized approach, utilizing Docker or Podman to host Windows environments on Linux. This setup addresses limitations of tools like Wine and Proton, which may not support all Windows applications effectively. The tool is built as an Electron app and is available for download from GitHub or its official site at https://www.winboat.app/, licensed under the MIT open-source terms.
To get started, users must meet specific system requirements: at least 4 GB of RAM, 2 CPU threads, and 32 GB of free storage. Initial setup involves enabling KVM virtualization in the BIOS/UEFI, installing Docker and Docker Compose v2, adding the user to the Docker group, and configuring FreeRDP for remote desktop access. WinBoat does not support Docker Desktop, and instructions are provided via links to Docker's documentation. Once prerequisites are met, users select a Windows version—optionally with a custom ISO—create a user account, customize virtual hardware, and enable home directory sharing if needed. The installation process runs in a container, with progress viewable in a web browser.
After setup, WinBoat boots into Windows without a visible GUI, allowing applications to launch seamlessly as native Linux programs. Users access built-in apps like File Explorer, Task Manager, or Notepad directly from the Apps tab. To install additional software, download EXE files and run them within the environment; installed programs then appear in the Apps tab for easy launching. Tests have successfully run free tools such as Notepad++ and ShareX, with user reports confirming compatibility for Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Office.
The configuration tab offers options for virtual hardware adjustments, display scaling, app scaling, multi-monitor support, smartcard passthrough, and RDP monitoring. Performance-wise, the full desktop experience lags behind dedicated VM tools like Virt Manager, though individual apps function adequately. Resource management features allow pausing or shutting down the container to conserve system resources. While Wine remains more mature, WinBoat serves as a viable option for the over one billion Windows 10 users—many of whom cannot upgrade to Windows 11—considering a switch to Linux for work or personal needs.