Docker Commit: Creating Custom Images with Ease

Docker commit is a powerful technique for transforming container modifications into new, customized images. This guide demonstrates leveraging a Makefile to streamline the Docker image creation process.

Why Use Docker Commit?

• Save custom configurations and setups.
• Create base images for development
• Version control Docker environments

Step-by-Step Guide Using Makefile

1. Create Initial Container

Create the base container using the Makefile:

make create-container

2. Enter and Modify Container

Access the container and make modifications:

make enter-container
make install-tools
make download-file
make view-file

These commands perform key actions:

• Update package lists
• Install wget and htop
• Download the Google homepage
• View downloaded content

3. Commit Container Changes

Create a new image from container modifications:

make commit-image
make tag-image IMAGE_ID=<your-image-id>

4. Clean Up Old Container

Remove the original container:

make remove-container

5. Run New Custom Container

Launch a container from the newly created image:

make run-custom-container

6. Verify New Container

Access and confirm modifications:

make enter-container
htop
cat index.html

Benefits of the Makefile Approach

The Makefile provides several advantages:

• Simplified Docker workflow
• Repeatable container creation process
• Easy-to-understand commands
• Reduced manual typing of complex Docker commands

Conclusion

Docker commit, combined with a well-structured Makefile, offers a powerful method for creating customized Docker images. By following these steps, you can efficiently manage and version your Docker environments.