Docker CLI Reference
Comprehensive Docker CLI command reference with search, categories, flags, examples, and tips.
About This Tool
The Docker CLI Reference is a comprehensive, searchable guide to every Docker command you need in daily development and operations. It covers Container Lifecycle commands (run, stop, exec, logs), Image management (pull, push, build, tag), Networks, Volumes, Docker Compose, System maintenance, Registry operations, and Build commands including BuildKit.
Each command entry includes common flags with descriptions, a ready-to-copy example, and practical tips from real-world usage. The Dockerfile Instructions tab provides a complete reference for writing efficient Dockerfiles — from FROM and RUN to HEALTHCHECK and STOPSIGNAL. The "What do you want to do?" reverse-lookup tab lets you describe your goal in plain English and find the right command instantly.
If you need to build docker run commands visually, try the <Link href={getLocalePath(locale, "/tools/docker-run-builder")} className="text-primary underline underline-offset-2">Docker Run Command Builder. For validating Dockerfiles against best practices, use the <Link href={getLocalePath(locale, "/tools/dockerfile-linter")} className="text-primary underline underline-offset-2">Dockerfile Linter. And to validate your Docker Compose files, check the <Link href={getLocalePath(locale, "/tools/docker-compose-validator")} className="text-primary underline underline-offset-2">Docker Compose Validator.
Everything runs entirely in your browser. No commands, images, or configuration data are sent to any server. The tool is designed for quick reference during development, CI/CD pipeline setup, and production troubleshooting.
How to Use
- Open the CLI Commands tab to browse all Docker commands, or switch to Dockerfile Instructions for Dockerfile reference.
- Use the search bar to find commands by name, flag, or description.
- Filter by category (Container Lifecycle, Images, Networks, Volumes, Docker Compose, System, Registry, Build) to narrow results.
- Click any command card to expand it and see flags, examples, and tips.
- Click the copy button on any command or example to copy it to your clipboard.
- Switch to the "What do you want to do?" tab and type your goal (e.g., "stop container") to find the right command.
- Press Ctrl+Shift+C to copy the currently expanded command's example.
Popular Docker CLI Examples
FAQ
Is my data safe?
Yes. This is a static reference tool that runs entirely in your browser. No search queries, commands, or any data are sent to a server.
Does this tool execute Docker commands?
No. This is a read-only reference and cheat sheet. It displays Docker commands, flags, and examples for you to copy and use in your own terminal. No commands are executed.
What Docker version does this reference cover?
The reference covers Docker CLI commands compatible with Docker Engine 24+ and Docker Compose V2 (the `docker compose` plugin syntax, not the legacy `docker-compose` binary).
What is the difference between docker compose and docker-compose?
`docker compose` (with a space) is the V2 plugin integrated into the Docker CLI. `docker-compose` (with a hyphen) is the legacy standalone binary. Docker recommends using V2. This reference uses the V2 syntax.
How do I use the reverse lookup?
Click the 'What do you want to do?' tab and type what you want to achieve in plain English, like 'free disk space' or 'view logs'. The tool will show matching Docker commands that you can click to see full details.
Can I use this reference offline?
Once the page is loaded, the entire reference works offline since all data is embedded in the page. You can bookmark it for quick access.
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