Ask Gordon: Docker’s AI-Powered Assistant

Introducing Ask Gordon: Docker’s AI-Powered Assistant

Docker has revolutionized containerization, making it an essential tool for developers worldwide. But as projects grow, managing containers, images, and Dockerfiles can become complex. Enter Ask Gordon, Docker’s AI-powered assistant, designed to simplify workflows and supercharge productivity. Currently in Beta, Ask Gordon integrates directly into Docker Desktop and the Docker CLI, offering contextual assistance tailored to your local environment.

What Is Ask Gordon?

Ask Gordon is an innovative suite of AI capabilities integrated with Docker’s tools. It aims to make Docker’s ecosystem more intuitive by providing actionable insights into your local Docker environment. Whether you’re troubleshooting containers, optimizing Dockerfiles, or identifying vulnerabilities, Ask Gordon is your go-to assistant.

docker gordon

Key Features of Ask Gordon

1. Contextual Assistance
   Ask Gordon understands your local setup, including your source code, images, and directories. Its responses are tailored to your environment, ensuring practical and relevant guidance.
2. Integration Across Docker Tools
   Embedded within Docker Desktop and the CLI, Ask Gordon offers support wherever you need it, with features accessible through the ✨ (sparkles) icon in Docker Desktop.
3. Actionable Insights
   From optimizing Dockerfiles to troubleshooting crashed containers, Ask Gordon’s suggestions are aimed at improving performance, security, and maintainability.
4. Data Privacy and Security
   All interactions with Ask Gordon are encrypted. Docker ensures that no data is stored persistently or shared with third parties.

Getting Started with Ask Gordon

To use Ask Gordon, you’ll need:

• Docker Desktop version 4.37 or later
• Access to the Ask Gordon Beta program

Setup Process

1. Sign In

• Open Docker Desktop and sign in to your Docker account.

2. Enable Ask Gordon

• Navigate to Settings → Features in Development and enable Docker AI.

3. Accept Terms of Service

• Interact with Ask Gordon for the first time via Docker Desktop or the CLI (docker ai), and accept the terms of service.

How to Use Ask Gordon

1. Troubleshoot Crashed Containers

Encounter an error when running a container? Let Ask Gordon help! For example, if a Postgres container fails to start due to missing credentials, simply use the ✨ icon in Docker Desktop to get tailored advice on resolving the issue.

2. Optimize Dockerfiles

Ask Gordon can evaluate your Dockerfile and suggest improvements for:

• Build cache optimization
• Security
• Image size efficiency
• Best practices compliance Run the command:

docker ai rate my Dockerfile

3. Run a New Container

Not sure how to configure a container? Ask Gordon provides guidance for running images like postgres with the right settings, ensuring a smooth experience.

Data Access and Privacy

Ask Gordon accesses:

• Local files (based on the working directory)
• Local Docker images Data is encrypted in transit and anonymized. Docker does not use this data to train AI models or share it with third parties.

Disabling Ask Gordon

If you decide to disable Ask Gordon:

1. Navigate to Settings → Features in Development in Docker Desktop.
2. Uncheck Enable Docker AI and restart Docker Desktop.

For organization-wide settings, administrators can use the admin-settings.json file to disable Docker AI across all users.

Why Use Ask Gordon?

With the rise of AI, tools like Ask Gordon are shaping the future of development workflows. By integrating AI into Docker’s ecosystem, Ask Gordon not only saves time but also enhances the quality of your work through actionable insights.

Share Your Feedback

Your feedback is crucial in refining Ask Gordon. Use the thumbs-up or thumbs-down buttons in Docker Desktop, or run the following command in the CLI:

docker ai feedback

Final Thoughts
Ask Gordon represents the next step in streamlining containerization workflows. Whether you’re a seasoned DevOps professional or new to Docker, Ask Gordon can help you navigate the complexities of modern development. Apply for the Beta program today and experience the power of AI in Docker!

Learn more at Docker’s official site.

If you found this guide helpful or have any questions, leave a comment below!

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Thank you for reading! 💚
— Anand Mohan 🌻✨