Docker and Debugging does that sound unfamiliar. Ready Player One: Docker!

Debugging, breakpoints and pure bliss here is the VS Code Extensions that helped me speed up development.

Level 1: Turbocharging Container Development, Debug DockerFile

Ever felt like your Docker build process is like a challenging game on “Hard mode” loaded with hidden traps? Lets break down the Docker debugging tips and how to use the VS Code extension to solve the mystery

Level 2: VS Code Extension ( Docker DX )

Before entering the arena, you need your loadout:

• Docker DX Extension: Install the latest from the Marketplace

  • https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=docker.docker

• Docker Desktop latest

Level 3: Launch Configuration

Its like saving a game state or a saving a setup. Configure your launch configuration for repeateable, debuggable

Create a launch.json and add your configs

{
  “version”: “0.2.0”,
  “configurations”: [
    {
      “type”: “dockerfile”,
      “request”: “launch”,
      “name”: “Docker: Build”,
      “dockerfile”: “Dockerfile”,
      “contextPath”: “${workspaceFolder}”
    }
  ]
}

Level 4: Breakpoints

True debugging happens here, and you can set breakpoints in your RUN instructions. Pause, Inspect, iterate, and repeat. Debug Sessions become controlled experiments

• Set breakpoints in Dockerfile by selecting any line and a Red Icon should appear

• Start debugging by hitting F9 or clicking on the green RUN icon

Level 5: Inspect , Explore , Exec

Variable Inspection:
Access ARGs, ENVs, and context right at the breakpoint. Like reviewing intermediate states in a long computation, never infer from final output alone.

File Explorer:
Directly view the filesystem in build context, see exactly what was copied in and what changed.

File Explorer Access :- Why It’s a Game Changer:

• Full Filesystem Visibility:
  Instantly browse the container’s current filesystem. Did your COPY command bring in the right files from context? Did the RUN operation or any build script generate expected outputs or logs?

• Content Peeking and Validation:
  For text files, you can view their actual contents perfect for checking config files, environment dumps, or logs directly in the image.

• Change Tracking:
  You get to see exactly what’s present after each step, helping you spot missing dependencies, orphan files, or misnamed directories early instead of hours later in production.

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