build a docker container

In this article, you will learn how to build a Docker container from scratch in a step-by-step tutorial.

Docker is a popular platform designed to make it easier to create, implement, and run applications by using containers. Understanding how to build a Docker container is an essential skill in the world of software development.

Step 1: Install Docker

The first step is to install Docker on your computer. Visit Docker’s official website and download the correct version for your operating system.

Step 2: Create a Docker file

A Dockerfile is a simple text file that contains the instructions needed to create a Docker image. Create a new directory, move into that directory, and create a Dockerfile.

mkdir my_docker_build
cd my_docker_build
touch Dockerfile

Step 3: Define your Docker image

Within the Docker file, you will need to specify the base image that should be used for your new Docker container.

FROM ubuntu:18.04

Step 4: Customizing the Docker Container

To make your container more useful, you might want to customize it. This could be done by installing necessary dependencies or copying your project’s files into the container.

RUN apt-get update
RUN apt-get install -y python3 python3-pip
COPY . /app

Step 5: Specify the Default Command

The default command for a Dockerfile is specified with CMD and, for a Python application, it might look something like this:

CMD ["python3", "your_script.py"]

Step 6: Building the Docker Image

When your Docker file is ready, you can use the Docker build command to create the Docker image.

docker build -t image_name .

Step 7: Run your New Docker Image

Now it’s time to test the Docker image by creating and running a Docker container from it. Use the Docker run command to create and run a container:

docker run -d -p 5000:5000 image_name

That’s it! You have successfully built and run a Docker image. Remember, practice makes perfect. Try to build different Docker containers to hone your skills and understand more about the Docker world.