Overview

Updated in May 2025. This course now features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. In this comprehensive Docker course, you'll master the fundamentals of containerization, including how to create, manage, and deploy containers and Docker images. By the end of the course, you'll be able to understand the differences between containers and virtual machines, set up Docker on multiple platforms, manage containers using the Docker CLI, and build and optimize Docker images. You'll also learn how to containerize real-world applications like NGINX, Express, and React, giving you the hands-on experience needed for practical deployment. The course begins with an introduction to Docker and containers, explaining their core benefits and architecture. You'll also set up Docker on MacOS, Linux, and Windows, ensuring you're ready for real-world development environments. Play with Docker will also be explored for quick container experiments. By the end, you will have completed projects that involve building and deploying containerized applications, reinforcing your knowledge and confidence in Docker. This course is ideal for beginners with a basic understanding of software development. No prior experience with Docker is required.

Syllabus

Getting Started with the Course

In this module, we will introduce the course, outlining its goals and helping you navigate the structure to ensure a successful learning journey. You will also learn how to maximize your course experience by leveraging tips and strategies. Finally, we will set expectations to help you track your progress throughout the course.

[Docker] Introduction to Containers

In this module, we will dive into the world of containers, covering their advantages and how they differ from virtual machines. You’ll also learn about Docker’s architecture, which powers container management, and why containers are becoming essential for efficient software deployment.

[Docker] Setting Up Docker and Required Tools

In this module, we will guide you through the installation and configuration of Docker on various platforms, including MacOS, Linux, and Windows. You’ll also set up essential development tools to ensure you have everything needed for hands-on Docker learning.

[Docker] Running Containers Using Docker

In this module, we will walk you through the process of running and managing containers using Docker. You’ll learn how to launch containers, explore their lifecycle, and use the Docker CLI to interact with and control your containers in various stages.

[Docker] Project - Customizing NGINX Pages

In this module, we will work on a practical project where you will set up and customize an NGINX container to serve web pages. By the end of the module, you’ll have hands-on experience modifying a running container and reviewing the outcomes to reinforce your Docker knowledge.

[Docker] Introduction to Docker Images

In this module, we will explore Docker images in-depth, covering their structure and how they serve as the foundation for containers. You will also learn how to work with Docker registries to manage images and how to use Dockerfiles to build customized images.

[Docker] Project - Containerize an Express App

In this module, we will guide you through a project where you containerize an Express app. You’ll build a "Hello World" application, test it, and then learn how to efficiently containerize and manage it using Docker.

[Docker] In-Depth Look at Docker Images

In this module, we will delve into advanced Docker image concepts, including Docker’s layered architecture and techniques for optimizing your images. You will also explore multistage Dockerfiles and distroless images to enhance security and efficiency in your containerized applications.

[Docker] Project - Containerize React App

In this module, we will walk you through a project to containerize a React app. You’ll build the app, create a Dockerfile for it, and ensure everything runs smoothly inside a Docker container, providing you with hands-on experience in full-stack containerization.