Part 2. Docker and development

In part 1, you learned Docker’s core concepts and architecture by example. Part 2 will take from you from this base to demonstrate ways Docker can be used in development.

Chapter 3 covers using Docker as a lightweight virtual machine. This is a controversial area. While there are critical differences between virtual machines and Docker containers, development can be sped up considerably in many cases by using Docker. It is also an effective means of getting familiar with Docker before we move into more advanced Docker usage. Chapter 4 explains over twenty techniques to make day-to-day development with Docker more effective and efficient. In addition to building and running containers, you’ll learn about persisting data with volumes and keeping your Docker host in order. Chapter 5 covers the important area of configuration management. You’ll use Dockerfiles and traditional configuration management tools to get control of your Docker builds. We also cover the creation and curation of minimal Docker images to reduce image bloat. By the end of this part you’ll have a wealth of useful techniques for single-use Docker and be ready to take Docker into a DevOps context.