Docker Tricks to Remove All Images

by:

Docker

This short tutorial teaches you how to remove all images in Docker.

1. Why would you want to Docker Remove All Images?

There can be several reasons why someone would want to remove all Docker images:

  1. Disk Space: Docker images can take up a lot of disk space, especially if you have multiple images or multiple versions of the same image. Removing all images can free up disk space that can be used for other purposes.
  2. Image Management: Over time, as you continue to use Docker, you may accumulate a large number of images that are no longer needed. Removing all images can help you clean up your environment and make it easier to manage your images.
  3. Security: Docker images can contain vulnerabilities, such as outdated software packages or known security issues. Removing all images can help ensure that you are using only the most up-to-date and secure images.
  4. Upgrading to a New Version: If you want to upgrade to a new version of a Docker image, you may need to remove the old image first. Removing all images can make it easier to upgrade to the latest version.
  5. Testing: If you are testing a new image or configuration, you may want to start with a clean slate by removing all existing images. This can help ensure that your test results are not impacted by any existing images or configurations.

In summary, there can be various reasons why someone would want to remove all Docker images, including disk space constraints, image management, security, upgrading to a new version, and testing.

2. Docker Remove All Images

Are you sure you want to remove all images? If so, first, all images and containers should be removed from your machine after running the two command lines below:

# delete ALL containers
$ docker rm -f $(docker ps -a -q)

# and then delete ALL images
$ docker rmi $(docker images -q) --force

More Resources

Here are two of my favorite Docker Books if you want to learn more about them.

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