docker / buildx

Buildx CLI Outline

The buildx CLI provides a powerful set of commands for managing and building Docker images in various environments. It extends the functionality of the standard Docker CLI, offering features like:

  • Multi-Platform Builds: Build images for different architectures and operating systems simultaneously.
  • Remote Builders: Use remote build environments, such as cloud-based services, to leverage more resources.
  • Buildkit Integration: Leverage the performance and flexibility of the Buildkit engine for building images.
  • Advanced Build Options: Utilize features like caching, secrets, and network access for efficient and secure builds.

Core Commands

buildx build: This command initiates a build process using buildx and follows the workflow similar to docker build.

buildx create: This command creates a new builder instance, which is an isolated environment for managing build processes. It allows you to choose a builder type like docker-container, docker-instance, kubernetes, or virtual-machine.

buildx inspect: This command inspects and retrieves information about the available builder instances.

buildx ls: This command lists the existing builder instances.

buildx rm: This command removes a specific builder instance.

buildx prune: This command cleans up unused resources related to buildx.

Usage Examples

1. Build an Image for Multiple Architectures:

buildx build --platform linux/amd64,linux/arm64 --tag my-image:latest .

This example builds the image for both AMD64 and ARM64 architectures, tagging it as my-image:latest.

2. Build an Image Using a Remote Builder:

buildx build --builder my-remote-builder --tag my-image:latest .

This example builds the image using a remote builder named my-remote-builder.

3. Use Buildkit for Enhanced Build Performance:

buildx build --builder my-builder --use-buildkit --tag my-image:latest .

This example uses Buildkit for the build process, leveraging its advanced capabilities.

4. Manage Builder Instances:

# Create a new builder instance using a Docker container
          buildx create --driver docker-container --name my-builder
          
          # List available builder instances
          buildx ls
          
          # Inspect a specific builder instance
          buildx inspect my-builder
          
          # Remove a builder instance
          buildx rm my-builder
          
          # Prune unused buildx resources
          buildx prune

These examples illustrate common use cases of the buildx CLI. You can explore the full range of options and capabilities by referring to the official documentation: https://docs.docker.com/buildx/

Additional Resources: