Module 02: Working with Images

Overview

In Docker, everything starts with an Image. It is the immutable blueprint from which containers are launched.

In this module, you will go from writing your first Dockerfile to mastering advanced optimization techniques used by top engineering teams. You will learn how to make your images small, secure, and fast.

Module Roadmap

  1. Image Layers & UnionFS Deep dive into the storage architecture. Understand how Copy-on-Write (CoW) works and why it impacts performance.

  2. Dockerfile Instructions The definitive guide to every instruction. Resolve the CMD vs ENTRYPOINT debate once and for all.

  3. Optimized Builds Learn how to leverage the build cache and use .dockerignore to speed up your CI/CD pipelines.

  4. Multi-Stage Builds The secret weapon for tiny images. Compile in one stage, ship only the binary in the next.

  5. Container Registries Understand the supply chain. Tag mutability, image digests, and security scanning.

  6. Module Review Test your knowledge with flashcards and grab the cheat sheet.

Prerequisites

Module Chapters