Dockerfile Best Practices

<aside> 📚 📁 Category: Docker

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Overview

Dockerfile defines how to build Docker images. Following best practices results in smaller, faster, and more secure images.

<aside> ℹ️ Why It Matters: Understanding Dockerfile Best Practices is essential for building robust, scalable, and secure modern applications.

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Key Concepts

[x] Layer Caching - Optimize build time
[x] Multi-stage Builds - Reduce image size
[x] Base Image Selection - Use official slim images
[x] COPY vs ADD - Use appropriate command
[x] USER instruction - Don't run as root
[x] .dockerignore - Exclude unnecessary files
[x] Health Checks - Monitor container health
[x] Build Arguments - Parameterize builds

Common Use Cases

<aside> 💡 Where to Apply Dockerfile Best Practices

                        Containerizing applications
                        Creating reproducible builds
                        CI/CD pipeline integration
                        Development environments
                        Production deployments
                        Microservices packaging

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Best Practices

[x] Use specific base image versions, not 'latest'
[x] Order instructions from least to most frequently changing
[x] Minimize number of layers
[x] Don't install unnecessary packages