Important Docker Commands Every Beginner Should Know

Docker makes it easier to deploy applications using containers. Below are some key Docker commands that will help you get started.

1. Docker Run

This command creates and starts a container from an image. If the image isn’t available locally, Docker pulls it first.

docker run <image_name>        

docker run --name <container_name> <image_name>        

2. Docker Pull

Downloads an image from Docker Hub. By default, it pulls the latest version.

docker pull <image_name>        

3. Docker PS

Lists running containers. Use flags to show all containers (`-a`), the latest container (`-l`), or just the container IDs (`-q`).

docker ps [options]        

4. Docker Stop

Stops a running container by name or ID.

docker stop <container_ID>        

5. Docker Start

Restarts a stopped container.

docker start <container_ID>        

6. Docker RM

Removes a container. Add -f to force removal.

docker rm <container_name_or_ID>        

7. Docker RMI

Deletes an image to free up space.

docker rmi <image_name_or_ID>        

8. Docker Exec

Runs a command inside a running container. Flags like -d (background) and -e (environment variables) are useful.

docker exec {options} <container_name>        

9. Docker Ports

Maps a port from the host to the container for external access.

docker run -d -p <host_port>:<container_port> <container_name>        

10. Docker Login

Authenticates with Docker Hub, allowing you to push and pull images. You'll be prompted for your credentials.

docker login        

11. Docker Push

Uploads a customised image to Docker Hub after you've built it.

docker push <image_name_or_ID>        

12. Docker Build

Builds a Docker image using a Dockerfile. The -t option assigns a tag to the image.

docker build -t <image_name:tag> .        

13. Docker Stop Multiple Containers

Stops multiple containers at once by specifying their names or IDs.

docker stop <container1> <container2> <container3>        

14. Docker Restart

Restarts a container, useful for troubleshooting.

docker restart <container_name_or_ID>        

15. Docker Inspect

Displays detailed information about a container or image, useful for debugging.

docker inspect <container_name_or_ID>        

16. Docker Commit

Creates a new image from an existing container with modifications.

docker commit <container_name_or_ID> <new_image_name:tag>        

These commands form the foundation of Docker. Practice them daily to become more familiar with Docker.