How to Install Docker on a WordPress Hosting Plan
Docker is an open source platform that makes it easy to run and manage software containers. It’s increasingly popular with developers and designers because it can be used to isolate their applications from one another. This means they can push code to production more easily and ensure their apps remain compatible. Docker’s popularity has even led to the creation of a dedicated blog, Docker Diary, which features helpful step-by-step guides on installing, configuring, and using Docker.
Here’s an in-depth guide to getting started with Docker on a WordPress hosting plan. We’ll cover everything from installing the Docker software to configuring the container registry.
What is a WordPress Hosting Plan?
A WordPress hosting plan is like a traditional web host but with a few perks added. These include the ability to install and configure additional applications, as well as provide custom builds of WordPress. The latter is especially useful for those who run a business website and need the ability to offer their customers product builds tailored to their needs.
Why Should You Consider a WordPress Hosting Plan?
You should consider a WordPress hosting plan for multiple reasons. To begin with, the platform is incredibly popular and has a large community of users and developers who are constantly adding new features and improving the experience for all users. Second, it’s a very flexible platform. You can install and configure any application you want to use with relative ease. And third, it’s completely free.
How Do I Install Docker on A WordPress Hosting Plan?
Installing Docker on a WordPress hosting plan is fairly straightforward. You just need to follow the directions provided by Docker and the WordPress support team. Since it’s a dedicated server solution, you won’t have to worry about capacity restrictions. So, let’s get started.
Step 1: Determine the Operating System Type
One of the first things you’ll need to do before you can install Docker is to determine what type of operating system you’re going to use. The WordPress support team recommends using either Linux or macOS if you’re a beginner. If you’re familiar with Windows or have used it in the past, this is a good starting point. But regardless of what type of system you choose, make sure that it is supported by Docker.
Step 2: Download and Install the Docker Software
The first step in the Docker installation process is to download and install the Docker software. Since you’ll be using a dedicated server, you won’t have to worry about capacity restrictions. However, you will need to pay for the Docker software download and installation individually. After you’ve installed the Docker software, you’ll have to verify your email address by visiting this link and creating a password for the account. Once you’ve created a password, you’ll be able to use the Docker software.
Step 3: Configure the Docker Settings
After you’ve verified your email address, you’ll be brought to the Docker Settings page. Here, you’ll need to provide information about your Docker installation. First, set a name for your Docker instance followed by defining its user name and password. Then, you’ll need to configure the Docker port and email settings. You can leave the HTTP port open or closed depending on your needs. The email settings will need to be configured to match your email provider. Finally, you’ll need to check the Remember Me option if you plan on visiting the site frequently. Without it, you’ll have to login each time you visit the Docker Settings page.
Step 4: Create a Docker Account
Once you’ve installed Docker and configured its settings, you’ll have to create a Docker account. To do this, you’ll need to visit this page and follow the prompts. Doing so will install a small tool on your computer called Tidbit which will make it easy to login to your Docker account whenever you need to. You’ll then be able to access your Docker settings and create or verify new containers.
How Do I Use Docker For Development?
Developers have a wide variety of needs when it comes to deploying applications on the internet. If you’re a beginner, you might want to use a Docker-enabled hosting plan so that you can deploy a simple application quickly and easily. For example, if you have a blog-related application that you want to test out, you can use the Docker image provided by WordPress to get started with minimal effort. Then, you can move over to a dedicated server to deploy your application in a more advanced manner.
Since Docker is a scalable solution, you can use it for any type of development you might need. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to offer custom builds to your customers or a freelance designer who wants to isolate your applications from one another, Docker can help.