Key takeaways: #

1. Dev containers allow developers to package their project and its environment (dependencies, tooling, etc.) in a container.
2. Utilizing containers eliminates the need to install specific frameworks, tooling, and runtimes locally, streamlining the onboarding process for new projects.
3. VS Code offers an extension called "Dev Containers" to integrate containerized development environments seamlessly.

What are Dev Containers? #

• Dev containers are a feature provided by VS Code that enable developers to work on projects within containers, which include all the necessary dependencies and runtimes required for the project.
• With Dev containers, developers can standardize their development environment for an entire project, ensuring that all team members have the same setup, regardless of their local operating system.
• By utilizing Dev containers, developers can avoid conflicts between different projects requiring different versions of frameworks or runtimes.

Getting started with Dev Containers #

Prerequisites #

• Install VS Code.
• Install a Docker engine (e.g., Docker Desktop, Podman, Rancher Desktop).
• Install the "Dev Containers" extension for VS Code.

Cloning and setting up a Dev Container-based project #

1. Clone a repository with a Dev Container configuration file (e.g., containing a file).
2. Open the cloned repository in VS Code.
3. Follow the prompt to reopen the folder in a container.
4. VS Code will build and launch the container with the specified environment, with all the required dependencies and runtimes installed.

Creating a new Dev Container #

1. In VS Code, use the "Create Dev Container" command.
2. Choose the desired starting point for your project (e.g., .NET, Go, PostgreSQL, etc.) from the available templates.
3. VS Code will create a new container and set up the environment, installing any required dependencies and runtimes based on the chosen template.

Customizing Dev Containers #

• The file can be used to customize the container environment, such as specifying extensions to be installed, configurations, and other settings.
• These customizations ensure a consistent development environment for all team members working on the project.

Conclusion #

Dev containers facilitate the development process by enabling developers to work within fully isolated and customizable environments. By utilizing Dev containers, developers can streamline the onboarding process for new projects and eliminate compatibility issues between different projects with varying dependencies and runtime environments. The VS Code "Dev Containers" extension provides a seamless experience for integrating containerized development environments into a developer's workflow.

Summary for: Youtube