learn docker

Learning Docker can simplify your software development and deployment processes by creating an isolated environment named containers. This article will guide you through the easy steps in learning Docker.

Understanding Docker

First, it’s important to understand what Docker is. Docker is an open-source platform designed to automate the deployment, scaling, and running of applications by using containerization. A container is a standalone executable package that includes everything needed to run software, including libraries, system tools, code, and runtime.

Installing Docker

To start learning Docker, you must first install Docker on your machine. The Docker website provides extensive documentation and download instructions for various operating systems. You can go there and download Docker according to the instructions provided for your OS.

Running Docker

After the complete installation is done, you can run Docker. Use a Terminal or Command Prompt and type:

docker -v

The system should respond by displaying the installed version of Docker.

Familiarize with Docker Commands

Up next, get familiar with Docker commands. Here are some of the basic ones:

• docker run: To create a new container
• docker start: To start an existing container
• docker ps: Lists running containers
• docker stop: Stops running containers
• docker rm: Removes an empty container

Docker Images

Docker images are the basis of containers. An image is a lightweight, stand-alone, executable software package that includes everything needed to run a piece of software. They are pulled from a Docker registry such as Docker Hub. You can pull an image using the command:

docker pull [image]

Replacing [image] with the name of the Docker image you want to download.

Running a Container

With a Docker image, you can now run a container. Use the command:

docker run -it [image]

With [image] being the name of the image. This command will start running a new Docker container for the specified image, and the -it flag will keep STDIN open and allocate a pseudo-TTY, meaning you’ll have an interactive shell to the container.

Dockerfiles

Lastly, it’s worth understanding Dockerfiles. These are text files that define the environment inside containers. They include instructions to build Docker images. You can create a Dockerfile using any text editor.

Finally, the best way to learn Docker is through continued practice and use. Building your own Docker files and managing your own containers will allow you to fully comprehend the power and utility of Docker. Happy Dockering!