Docker MCP Server is a Model Context Protocol integration that enables AI assistants to manage Docker containers through natural language. Build images, run containers, manage volumes, and orchestrate multi-container applications without memorizing Docker commands.
Engineers spend 30% of their time managing containers. Building images, debugging failed deployments, managing networks and volumes - Docker's power comes with overwhelming complexity.
Docker MCP transforms container management into conversations. Tell Claude what you need - "Deploy my app with Redis and PostgreSQL" - and watch it orchestrate everything perfectly. No more Dockerfile debugging, no more compose file confusion.
Build, run, stop, and remove containers with natural language. Auto-detect optimal configurations.
Optimize Dockerfiles automatically. Create efficient, minimal images with AI-powered layer caching.
Generate and manage docker-compose files. Deploy complete stacks with one command.
Stream and analyze container logs. AI-powered debugging and performance insights.
Install Docker MCP Server
npm install -g docker-mcp-serverEnsure Docker is running
Docker Desktop or Docker Engine must be installed and running
Configure Claude Desktop
{
"mcpServers": {
"docker": {
"command": "docker-mcp",
"args": ["--socket", "/var/run/docker.sock"]
}
}
}Start containerizing!
Try: "Run a nginx container on port 8080" or "Show all running containers"
Standardize development environments, automate container workflows.
Build and test containers automatically in your deployment pipeline.
Orchestrate complex microservice architectures with ease.
Deploy a full stack:
"Set up a React app with Node.js backend and PostgreSQL database"Optimize images:
"Reduce the size of my Python app Docker image"Debug containers:
"Why is my container crashing? Check the logs"Clean up:
"Remove all stopped containers and unused images"Yes! Works perfectly with Docker Desktop on Mac, Windows, and Linux.
Currently supports local Docker daemon only. Remote host support is on the roadmap.
Yes! Can generate, modify, and manage docker-compose.yml files and multi-container apps.
Best for development and staging. For production, always review generated configurations.
Absolutely! Can create optimized Dockerfiles for any application stack.