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make a docker container

Simple docker step by step how to make a docker container with explanation

Docker is a platform that automates the deployment, scaling, and management of applications using container virtualization technology. This article aims to guide you through creating a Docker container in simple steps.

Step 1: Install Docker

First off, you must have Docker installed on your machine. You can download and install docker from the official Docker website and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Create a Dockerfile

A Dockerfile is a simple text file that contains the instructions to build a Docker image. It’s like a recipe for Docker.

Here’s how to create one:

  • Open a terminal and navigate to the directory where you want to create Dockerfile.

  • Use the following command to create a new Dockerfile

touch Dockerfile

  • Open the Dockerfile in a text editor.

  • In the Dockerfile, write the instructions necessary for your application.

For instance, to create a simple Node.js app, your Dockerfile might look like this:

FROM node:14

WORKDIR /usr/src/app

COPY package*.json ./

RUN npm install

COPY . .

EXPOSE 8080

CMD [ "node", "server.js" ]

Step 3: Build The Docker Image

The next step is to build the Docker image using the Docker build command followed by a tag and a dot. The command should look something like:

docker build -t simple-node-app:latest .

After running this command, Docker will start building the image based on the instructions found in your Dockerfile.

Step 4: Run The Docker Container

The final step is running your Docker container based on the Docker image you’ve just built. This is done using the Docker run command:

docker run -p 8080:8080 -d simple-node-app:latest

If everything has been set up correctly, you should now have a Docker container running your application. You can always check the status of your running containers using the Docker ps command.

And that’s it! You’ve just built and run your first Docker container.

Remember, every application might require a different Dockerfile setup. The most valuable command in Docker will always be the Docker documentation. Happy Dockering!

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