Docker Certification Training Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This comprehensive Docker Certification Training Course is designed for beginners and delivers a hands-on understanding of Docker and containerization. Spanning 8 modules, the course covers the full Docker lifecycle—from foundational concepts to deployment and integration in CI/CD pipelines. Each module takes approximately 1 week (6-8 hours), totaling around 60 hours of learning. You'll gain practical experience through real-world labs, learning to build, manage, and secure Docker environments while applying best practices across platforms.
Module 1: Introduction to Containers & Docker
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Understand the differences between virtual machines and containers
- Explore Docker architecture (Docker Daemon, CLI, Images, Containers)
- Install Docker Engine on Linux, Windows, and Mac
- Run and test a basic container using 'hello-world'
Module 2: Docker Images & Containers
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Pull and run official Docker images (e.g., nginx, alpine)
- Manage container lifecycle: start, stop, restart, remove
- Inspect and monitor running containers
- Understand container states and metadata
Module 3: Dockerfiles & Image Building
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Write Dockerfiles using correct syntax and best practices
- Understand image layering and build caching
- Implement multi-stage builds for optimization
- Build and test container images for Node.js or Python applications
Module 4: Docker Networking & Storage
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Configure bridge, host, and overlay networks
- Connect containers using custom Docker networks
- Use Docker volumes and bind mounts for persistent storage
- Manage data lifecycle and ensure data durability
Module 5: Docker Compose for Multi-Container Apps
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Define services, networks, and volumes in docker-compose.yml
- Orchestrate multi-container applications (e.g., web + database + cache)
- Start, stop, and scale services using Docker Compose
- Manage configuration and environment variables in Compose
Module 6: Docker Registry & Image Management
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Compare Docker Hub with private registries
- Tag, push, and pull custom Docker images
- Set up and configure a local private registry
- Manage image versions and repositories
Module 7: Security & Best Practices
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Scan images for vulnerabilities using open-source tools
- Apply security hardening techniques (least privilege, user namespaces)
- Sign and verify Docker images for integrity
- Follow Docker security best practices in production
Module 8: CI/CD Integration & Advanced Topics
Estimated time: 8 hours
- Integrate Docker with CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins or GitLab CI
- Automate image builds and deployments
- Explore Docker Swarm basics for container orchestration
- Introduction to Kubernetes and its relationship with Docker
Prerequisites
- Familiarity with basic Linux commands and shell scripting
- Understanding of software development and deployment workflows
- Basic knowledge of networking and storage concepts
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Containerize applications using Docker and optimize image builds
- Manage multi-container applications with Docker Compose
- Secure Docker environments and scan images for vulnerabilities
- Integrate Docker into CI/CD pipelines for automated deployments
- Apply Docker best practices in real-world DevOps and cloud-native workflows