Managing instances of Laravel and PHP in Docker containers can be a complex experience, especially when working with different versions. Docker containers are highly appealing for developers due to their scalability and reusability. However, to use them effectively, you need to be mindful of certain points so you don't run into issues while updating.
Initially, to manage instances in Docker, you need to utilize a custom Dockerfile that allows you to have your specific configurations. Additionally, using stable versions (mostly by using version numbers) is crucial to ensuring stability in the project. This approach helps when updates are necessary; you can only update the versions that have been fully tested and confirmed to be compatible with your software.
It is advisable to always use stable versions appropriate for your development environment and to test changes primarily in the development environment. Furthermore, it's better to utilize a CI/CD pipeline for testing and deployment to ensure that new versions can operate smoothly.
Another important step is leveraging "rolling updates" or patch updates. This method will help you transition from an older version to a new version without causing disruption to the main system. In simpler terms, current containers can be gradually replaced with new containers and their tests can be conducted.
Ultimately, one of the most effective ways to manage issues during patching of containers is by using utilities like Docker Compose, which allow you to seamlessly connect containers and manage them collectively. These tools enable you to easily modify interconnected files and create a fully tested environment.
FROM php:8.1-fpm
COPY . /var/www
WORKDIR /var/www
RUN docker-php-ext-install pdo pdo_mysql
RUN apt-get update && apt-get install -y zip unzip \
&& php -r "copy('https://getcomposer.org/installer', 'composer-setup.php');" \
&& php composer-setup.php \
&& php -r "unlink('composer-setup.php');" \
&& mv composer.phar /usr/local/bin/composer
CMD ["php-fpm"]
FROM php:8.1-fpm: Start Dockerfile with PHP 8.1 FPM
COPY . /var/www: Copy all files into the target directory in the container
WORKDIR /var/www: Set the default working directory in the container
RUN docker-php-ext-install pdo pdo_mysql: Install PDO and PDO_MySQL extensions for PHP
RUN apt-get update && apt-get install -y zip unzip && php -r "copy('https://getcomposer.org/installer', 'composer-setup.php');" && php composer-setup.php && php -r "unlink('composer-setup.php');" && mv composer.phar /usr/local/bin/composer: Update packages, install unzip, and install Composer as a PHP management tool
CMD ["php-fpm"]: Command to run php-fpm when the container starts