DockBridge is a powerful client-server system built with Go that simplifies the use of Docker on cloud servers, particularly those provided by Hetzner Cloud. This innovative solution not only enables cost-effective server provisioning but also enhances container management by leveraging laptop lock detection and keep-alive features. Users can effortlessly run Docker containers on low-cost servers, incurring charges only during usage.

Key Issues Addressed

Running Docker Desktop on machines, particularly Mac and Windows, can lead to several challenges:

• Performance Drawbacks: Slow builds on ARM Macs targeting x86 architecture.
• Resource Consumption: Increased battery drain from running virtual machines and consuming SSD storage for Docker images.
• Cost of Cloud Solutions: Keeping a cloud VM running 24/7 can be expensive, ranging between $30-50/month, in addition to manual setup and maintenance requirements.

The Solution: DockBridge

DockBridge automatically provisions cloud servers as needed, allowing developers to run Docker commands without the overhead of local installations:

# Set Docker to use the DockBridge socket
export DOCKER_HOST=unix:///tmp/dockbridge.sock

# Execute Docker commands seamlessly
docker run hello-world  # Provisioning occurs automatically
docker build .          # Achieve fast builds on appropriate hardware

The expected operational cost is between $0.01 and $0.05 per hour only when containers are actively built or run.

Benefits of DockBridge

DockBridge offers a compelling alternative to traditional cloud and local Docker setups, as summarized below:

Features

🚀 Automatic Server Lifecycle

• On-demand provisioning: Servers are created as Docker commands are executed.
• Auto-shutdown: Servers will shut down automatically after a predefined idle period to save costs.
• Instant resume: Persistent storage ensures that images remain available for future use.

💾 Persistent Docker State

• Images, containers, and volumes are maintained even after a server shuts down.
• Utilizes cost-effective block storage from Hetzner at approximately €0.04/GB/month.

🔒 Security

• All connections are secured with encryption through an SSH tunnel, minimizing security risks.
• No public ports are exposed on the cloud server, ensuring safer operations.

💰 Cost Optimization

• Only pay for the actual compute time utilized with real-time monitoring of costs via the dockbridge status command.

Overview of Commands

# To start the DockBridge proxy
dockbridge start [--daemon] [--socket /path/to/socket]

# To check the current server status
dockbridge status [--json] [--watch]

# To stop and remove the server
dockbridge stop [--force]

Why Choose DockBridge?

DockBridge is ideally suited for developers seeking fast, low-cost Docker builds without the traditional overhead of virtual machines. The service provides a unique solution for maintaining persistent states while ensuring security and optimal resource usage. For further information on the features and to get started, visit the DockBridge GitHub page.

Utilize DockBridge to streamline Docker workflows efficiently, saving time and cost while ensuring a seamless development experience.