Docker images can easily become large, often exceeding hundreds of megabytes due to dependencies and the base Linux distribution used. However, smaller base images have been developed, some weighing just a few megabytes, like Alpine Linux, which is only 5 MB. Smaller images are beneficial because they require less storage, have fewer dependencies, which result in less complexity, and enhance security by minimizing the attack surface. The article explores the advantages of small Docker images and highlights some of the best options available for those seeking to optimize their container deployments.
Docker images can get pretty bulky if you're not careful. Images in the hundreds of megabytes are common, often because they use as their base some variety of Linux distribution.
So how small can you make a base Docker image? Pretty small, as it turns out-within the realm of a few dozen megabytes, or even smaller.
Heavily minimized images have a smaller attack surface, fewer dependencies to manage, and faster total build times. So, there's good reason to invest in making them.
Alpine Linux built its reputation as a small, lightweight, security-conscious Linux for embedded hardware and dedicated devices. The official Alpine Linux image is a mere 5 megabytes.
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