Successfully integrating Docker images into various cloud services may seem like a challenge, but with the help of GitHub and its workflows, it's easier than you might think. Here's how to do it using examples with AWS, GCP and Azure.
How to start the integration flow on GitHub?
Going back to GitHub is vital when we talk about the second part of the continuous integration flow. In this case, the focus is on the build or compile that is executed by two types of events: a workflow dispatch or an issue comment. The choice on whether to compile on AWS, GCP or Azure is made via an option presented in a choice type input.
What is the function of the docker- AWS job?
The docker-aws job is the first job and is executed when we want to compile the image and upload it to the AWS registry. This process only runs when a conditional is met that confirms that the event that triggered the workflow was a pull request and that the pull request comment contains 'build-aws'.
How to configure QEMU and Docker BuildX?
To compile the necessary files for the Docker image, QEMU, a special Docker option, is configured using an officially defined Docker action called setupQemuAction. Additionally, another action is used to configure Docker BuildX, which controls how to compile the images and is recommended for production environments.
How to upload the image to AWS?
To upload the image to AWS, we need to configure credentials for an AWS IAM user that include an accessKeyId and a secretAccessKey. Then, we authenticate to the Elastic Container Registry (ECR), the service that AWS provides for uploading and maintaining Docker images, using the AmazonECRlogin action.
How to add the image to other cloud providers?
In addition to AWS, the image can also be added to GCP and Azure. In GCP, the registry is called 'Artifact Registry', and in Azure, it is 'Azure Container Registry'. For each of these options, you should look for shares in the Marketplace and check in community forums how other people uploaded their Docker images there.
How to verify successfully compiled and uploaded images?
To verify that all images have been successfully compiled and uploaded, you can check the 'Actions' tab on GitHub. Here, you can see the details of each job in the workflow, including whether it has passed or failed, how long it took, and what was the last step that was executed.
With these tools, you can create your own continuous integration workflow for your personal projects. This process will allow you to demonstrate expertise and knowledge in the effective use of GitHub Actions, Docker and various cloud services. Impress everyone with your mastery of continuous integration!
Want to see more contributions, questions and answers from the community?