Docker for Beginners

This course introduces Docker and containerization. Targeted at developers with no prior Docker experience, we will cover the basics of local development with containers using Docker Desktop.

Hours

Beginner

  Last Updated
June 2025

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Prerequisites:

No previous experience in programming is needed! We'll guide you through everything you need to know.

What we'll cover...

  • What Docker is and why it matters in modern development
  • Creating custom images with Dockerfiles
  • Installing Docker and understanding key concepts like images, containers, and volumes
  • Building and running your first Docker containers
  • Managing multi-container apps with Docker Compose
  • Best practices for using Docker in development projects and preparing for deployment

Why Docker?

Docker is the backbone of modern software development. It lets you package your code, dependencies, and environments into neat, portable containers, so your app just works, whether it’s on your laptop or in the cloud.

If you’re aiming for a job in tech, especially development, DevOps, or network engineering then Docker isn’t optional anymore. It’s a must have skill that shows you understand how real-world apps are built, tested, and deployed.

This short course makes Docker more approachable, even if you’re brand new to it. You’ll learn by doing, break down confusing jargon, and walk away with the core skills and understanding to start building and deploying basic containerized applications.

No more “but it works on my computer.”

Let’s containerize that chaos.

Curriculum Outline

Module 1: Getting Started

  • Before we get started, we must understand why containers are awesome and get our environment set up.
  • Welcome Message
  • Why Containers?
  • Quiz: Container Basics

Module 2: The Basics

  • Master the core concepts of Docker by learning about the engine, images, and containers that form the foundation of containerization technology. Once you understand these concepts, you will be able to use any containers from Docker Hub or any other sources.
  • The Docker Engine
  • Container Images
  • Containers
  • Quiz: The Basics

Module 3: Building Containers for Applications

  • Put theory into practice by containerizing an ASP.NET Core application and using Docker Compose to set up Wordpress with a Database. You will learn the basics of managing data persistence, networking, and orchestrating multi-container environments.
  • Creating a Single-Container Application
  • Activity: Manually Creating a Dockerfile
  • Volumes and Data Persistence
  • Docker Networking
  • Multiple-Container Applications with Docker Compose
  • Quiz: Building Containers for Applications

Module 4: Next Steps

  • Discover pathways for advancing your containerization skills and knowledge beyond the basics.
  • What's Next?

How We Build Developers

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Written Lessons That Actually Make Sense
 

Our written content explains complex concepts in plain English, with real examples you can quickly apply. You'll understand not just what to do, but why pros make the decisions we do.

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Hands-On Practice That Builds Confidence

Every concept comes with code samples and exercises. You can't learn to play guitar without putting your fingers on the strings and you can't learn to code without writing a lot of code!
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Videos That Show, Don't Just Tell

You'll see how professional developers think, debug, and refactor code. These aren't just lectures, but applied theory. See concepts actually used together!
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Rigorous Capstone Projects That Prove Your Skills

You'll build substantial applications that demonstrate your ability to architect solutions, handle complexity, and deliver professional-quality code.

Join developers who chose...

depth over speed,
understanding
over memorizationand 
professional skills over participation certificates.

Frequently asked questions

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for people who have basic knowledge of applications, servers, and networks who want to understand how real-world software gets built, shipped, and run. This is a gentle starting point for learning the terminology and concepts of how Docker containers are created.

Do I need to know a specific programming language first?

No, but some basic familiarity with coding helps (especially terminal/command line usage), but we walk you through every step. Whether you're using Python, C#, or something else, the Docker fundamentals apply across languages.

Will I be able to use Docker in my own projects after this?

Absolutely. You'll walk away knowing how to containerize apps, use Docker Compose, and set up a consistent development environment, skills you can apply immediately. Once you understand these concepts, you are ready to start exploring more specific scenarios for your application stack.

Is Docker actually used in real jobs?

Yes! From startups to big tech, Docker is a standard tool in modern development and DevOps. Knowing it shows you understand how production systems are built and deployed.

About the Author

Eric Wise

Software Architect | Mentor | Entrepreneur
Eric isn't just another online instructor, he's a veteran software architect, multi-time tech entrepreneur, and someone who's been in every corner of the industry from tech start ups, big corporations, and freelancing.
But what makes Eric truly special is his legendary ability to explain complex concepts in ways that actually stick.

Forge your Future. Learn to Code.

You can’t fast forward time, but you can stop wasting it.

Join now and start making real progress.

Start today.

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