Getting started with Docker can feel overwhelming, but having the right resources makes all the difference.
Whether you're a developer, sysadmin, or just curious about containerization, these beginner-friendly books and guides will help you take your first steps with Docker.
I’ve included a mix of free and paid options to fit different budgets, so there’s something for everyone!
1. Introduction to Docker (Free)
This free ebook is written specifically for beginners and covers Docker from the ground up. It starts with the basics—like what containers are—and walks you through creating and managing your first Docker containers. Since it’s available as a free download on GitHub, it’s a great starting point for anyone exploring Docker.
2. The Docker Handbook by Farhan Hasin Chowdhury (Free)
Published by FreeCodeCamp, this is one of the best free resources for beginners. It’s straightforward and filled with practical examples. The book explains core Docker concepts and takes you through building and running containers, creating images, and even touches on Docker Compose.
3. Docker Deep Dive by Nigel Poulton (Paid)
If you’re serious about learning Docker, this is one of the most comprehensive books available. Nigel Poulton explains Docker concepts in plain language and includes hands-on exercises to help you practice. Whether you’re learning about containers, volumes, or Docker Swarm, this book has you covered.
View Website
View Website
View Website
4. The Docker Book by James Turnbull (Paid)
James Turnbull’s The Docker Book is a classic for Docker beginners. It offers a deep dive into the Docker ecosystem, from setting up your environment to deploying applications in containers. The book also introduces advanced concepts like networking and scaling containers.
5. Docker in Action by Jeff Nickoloff and Stephen Kuenzli (Paid)
If you’re looking to go beyond the basics, Docker in Action is an excellent resource. The book combines beginner-friendly explanations with more advanced examples, like building CI/CD pipelines with Docker. It’s perfect for those who want to build practical Docker skills.
6. Docker Official Documentation (Free)
Not exactly a book, but the Docker Docs are one of the best free resources available. They’re beginner-friendly, regularly updated, and include tutorials on everything from installation to advanced use cases. If you’re ever stuck, the official docs are a reliable place to look for answers.
Conclusion
Docker is a game-changer for developers and sysadmins, and learning it is easier than ever with the right resources. Whether you prefer free guides like Introduction to Docker and The Docker Handbook or want a deeper dive with books like Docker Deep Dive, the key is to just start!
The best way to learn Docker is by doing. If you don’t have a server to experiment with, you can use my DigitalOcean referral link to get $200 in free credit. This is perfect for spinning up a droplet and trying out Docker in a real-world environment.
If you’ve read any of these or have other Docker books to recommend, let me know in the comments. Happy containerizing! 🚀
Comments (0)