Updating a Container

In order to update a docker container, we need to follow a few steps (outlined below). We will need to update the image to a newer version and then build a new container based off that image. It is usually best to not use the image with the ':latest' tag. Instead try to build your container off of a specific image version (What's Wrong With The Docker :latest Tag?).

1. Stop the Running Container:

• Run: docker container stop [container id]
  • Or: run docker-compose down

1. Remove the Old Container:

• Run: docker container rm id

1. Pull the New Image:

• Run: docker pull image:tag
  • Or: update the image tag in your docker-compose file.

1. Start the New Container:

• Run: docker run ...
  • Or: docker-compose up

Note:

In order to find the current image version of your container, you can run an inspect command on your running container:

• docker inspect [container id]

Find the current image tag within this metadata. Then take this image tag and plug it into a search on Docker Hub to determine a reasonable image version for your new container.

Warning:

When you update your image to a new version pay attention to breaking changes. Do not update your container to an image version that requires changes to your container setup without first making the needed changes.