Docker Compose allows you to define and manage multi-container applications using a single YAML configuration file. It is widely used for deploying web applications, databases, APIs, and development environments on a Linux VPS.
Requirements
- Ubuntu VPS (22.04 or 24.04)
- Docker Engine installed
- SSH access with sudo privileges
Step 1 — Verify Docker Installation
docker --versionIf Docker is not installed yet, install Docker before continuing.
Step 2 — Verify Docker Compose Plugin
docker compose versionIf Docker Compose is already installed, you will see the installed version.
Step 3 — Install Docker Compose
Update your package list first:
sudo apt updateInstall the official Docker Compose plugin:
sudo apt install docker-compose-plugin -yStep 4 — Verify Installation
docker compose versionExample output:
Docker Compose version v2.x.xStep 5 — Create a Test Project
mkdir docker-test
cd docker-testCreate a new file named docker-compose.yml.
nano docker-compose.ymlAdd the following configuration:
services:
nginx:
image: nginx:latest
ports:
- "80:80"Save the file and exit.
Step 6 — Start the Container
docker compose up -dDocker will automatically download the Nginx image and start the container.
Step 7 — Verify Running Containers
docker psYou should see the Nginx container running.
Step 8 — Stop the Project
docker compose downUseful Docker Compose Commands
docker compose up -d
docker compose down
docker compose restart
docker compose logs
docker compose ps
docker compose pullBest Practices
- Always use the latest stable Docker images.
- Store application data in Docker volumes.
- Keep your compose files under version control.
- Use environment variables for sensitive information.
- Regularly update Docker and Docker Compose.
Conclusion
Docker Compose makes deploying and managing multiple containers simple and efficient. It is an essential tool for developers, DevOps engineers, and anyone hosting applications on a VPS.
Related Articles
- How to Install Docker on Ubuntu 24.04 VPS
- How to Install Nginx on Ubuntu VPS
- How to Install Node.js on Ubuntu VPS
- How to Secure Your Linux VPS
- How to Connect to Your VPS via SSH
