Docker Compose updates with a single command

If you work with Docker Compose, you know updating services means stopping them, pulling new images, and starting them again. It's a repetitive three-step dance: stop, pull, up -d.

Wouldn't it be great to do all that with a single command, and even have an easy way to view the logs afterward? You can, with a simple bash function!

The Manual Steps:

Typically, you run:

1. docker-compose stop
2. docker-compose pull
3. docker-compose up -d
4. docker-compose logs -f (this is optional as I only use it sometimes)

It works, but it's typing you do over and over.

The Automated Solution:

Add this function to your shell config file (like ~/.bashrc or ~/.zshrc):

# Automates Docker Compose update: stop, pull, up -d, with optional logs.

function compose_update() {
  echo "Stopping Docker Compose services..."
  docker-compose stop

  echo "Pulling latest images..."
  docker-compose pull

  echo "Starting Docker Compose services in detached mode..."
  docker-compose up -d

  # If 'logs' is the first argument, follow logs afterward
  if [ "$1" == "logs" ]; then
    echo "--- Following logs (Press Ctrl+C to exit) ---"
    docker-compose logs -f
  fi
}

Why It's Handy:

• Saves Time: One command instead of three.
• Less Error-Prone: No forgotten steps.
• Quick Updates: Fast-tracks your development workflow.
• Optional Logs: Instantly see what's happening after the update by adding logs.

How to Use It:

1. Add the code: Paste the function into your shell configuration file (~/.bashrc, ~/.zshrc).
2. Reload: Run source ~/.bashrc (or your file) or open a new terminal.
3. Go to project: Navigate to your docker-compose.yml directory.
4. Run:

To update AND follow logs afterward:

compose_update logs

To just update (stop, pull, up -d):

compose_update

Simplify your Docker Compose workflow today with this handy bash function!