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How to Ramp Up on Docker

Quick Summary​

MetricValue
Average ramp-up time2 weeks
Difficulty levelIntermediate
PrerequisitesLinux basics, Command line
CategoryInfrastructure

What is Docker?​

Docker is a platform for developing, shipping, and running applications in containers, enabling consistent environments across development and production.

Key features: Containerization, Image registry, Docker Compose, Multi-stage builds

How Long Does It Take to Ramp Up on Docker?​

For developers with Linux basics and Command line experience, ramping up on Docker typically takes 2 weeks to reach basic productivity.

Experience LevelTime to Productivity
With prerequisites2 weeks
Without prerequisites3-4 weeks

Learning Path for Docker​

Week 1: Foundations​

Days 1-2: Environment setup

  • Install Docker and required tools
  • Set up your development environment
  • Run the official "Hello World"

Days 3-5: Core concepts

  • Work through official tutorials
  • Understand the fundamental mental models
  • Build something small but complete

Week 2-1: Building​

  • Build a real project you care about
  • Learn common patterns and best practices
  • Start reading other people's code

Week 2-2: Production Ready​

  • Understand testing patterns
  • Learn debugging strategies
  • Explore advanced features

Common Challenges When Learning Docker​

  • Image layer understanding: Learn how layers work for efficient Dockerfiles
  • Volume management: Understand the difference between volumes and bind mounts
  • Networking: Learn bridge, host, and none network modes

Prerequisites​

Before learning Docker, you should be comfortable with:

  • Linux basics
  • Command line

How Ramp Accelerates Docker Onboarding​

Ramp helps developers onboard to Docker codebases faster:

# Point Ramp at a Docker project
ramp init

# Ask questions about Docker patterns
ramp voice
> "How is Docker used in this codebase?"
> "What's the pattern for X in this project?"
> "Explain how this Docker code works"

Kubernetes | Docker Compose | Containerd | Podman

Ready to ramp up on Docker? Try Ramp free →