Docker Roadmap

A step-by-step Docker roadmap: what to learn in order, the related skills and the best places to learn each step.

The stack, end to end

  • Fundamentals: Linux command line, File permissions, Processes, Shell scripting
  • DevOps: Docker, Dockerfile, Docker Compose, Container networking, CI/CD, GitHub Actions, Automated deployment, Secrets management, Kubernetes, Pods and deployments, Services and ingress, kubectl

  1. Linux and the command line

    Suggested pace: Start here

    Servers mostly run Linux. Learn to move around the file system, read and edit files, manage permissions and processes, and write small shell scripts.

    Skills

    • Linux command line
    • File permissions
    • Processes
    • Shell scripting

    Tips

    • Use the terminal for everyday tasks for a few weeks and it will start to feel natural.

    Where to learn

  2. Docker and containers

    Suggested pace: Next

    A container packages an app with everything it needs so it runs the same everywhere. Learn images, containers, volumes, networks, Dockerfiles and Docker Compose.

    Skills

    • Docker
    • Dockerfile
    • Docker Compose
    • Container networking

    Tips

    • Containerise one of your own projects end to end.

    Where to learn

  3. CI/CD and automation

    Suggested pace: Then

    Continuous integration runs your tests on every change, and continuous delivery deploys safely. Learn pipelines, build artifacts, secrets and a simple release process, for example with GitHub Actions.

    Skills

    • CI/CD
    • GitHub Actions
    • Automated deployment
    • Secrets management

    Tips

    • Make a pipeline that runs tests on every push to your project.

    Where to learn

  4. Kubernetes

    Suggested pace: After that

    Kubernetes runs and scales containers across many machines. Learn pods, deployments, services, config, storage and how to debug a failing workload.

    Skills

    • Kubernetes
    • Pods and deployments
    • Services and ingress
    • kubectl

    Tips

    • Learn Docker properly first. Kubernetes builds on it.

    Where to learn

Frequently asked questions

Where should I start with Docker?

Start at step 1 and work down in order, because later steps build on earlier ones. If you are signed in, the roadmap compares your resume with each step and marks where you could start.

Is Docker worth learning?

Check how many job adverts in your area mention Docker, and whether it fits the kind of work you want. This roadmap shows what to learn; the Browse jobs page shows what employers are asking for.

How do I know I am ready to apply?

When you can build a small project from start to finish without copying a tutorial, and explain why you made your choices. Apply while you keep learning; you do not need to know everything.