Lazydocker Simplify Docker Management with TUI Tool
Lazydocker is a simple, terminal-based UI for managing Docker containers, images, volumes, and services. Monitor logs, stats, and perform actions easily with an intuitive, lightweight interface.
Key Features
Live Logs and Stats
- Monitor real-time container logs, CPU, and memory usage. Quickly catch performance issues or app errors without switching tools.
Keyboard Navigation
- Use simple shortcuts to move through containers and services. Lazydocker makes Docker fast to manage with just a keyboard.
Easy Container Control
- Start, stop, restart, or remove containers in one click. Lazydocker replaces complex CLI commands with quick actions.
Docker Compose Support
- Manage multi-container setups easily. Lazydocker shows all Compose services in one place with full control and live feedback.
Fast Debugging with Logs
- Built-in log viewer helps find issues fast. Lazydocker shows logs and stats together to simplify container debugging.
Simple Setup, Developer Friendly
- Install and run with one command. Lazydocker is made for developers who want quick, powerful Docker control.
Interactive Terminal UI
- Lazydocker gives a visual interface for Docker inside the terminal. Manage containers, images, and services without writing long commands.
Lightweight and Terminal-Based
- Lazydocker runs in any terminal, no GUI needed. Perfect for remote servers or developers who prefer keyboard tools.
Benefits of lazydocker
Docker Simplified
Lazydocker makes Docker easier by offering a clean terminal UI to manage containers, images, and volumes—no complex commands required.
Live Monitoring
View real-time stats, logs, and container activity instantly. Stay updated on system performance without extra scripts or windows.
Compose Support
Easily handle Docker Compose projects with built-in navigation. Monitor, restart, or inspect services directly from the terminal.
Fast Debugging
Access live logs and metrics fast. Identify container issues instantly and fix errors quicker without digging through long CLI outputs.
Safe Views
Inspect containers and logs safely with minimal risk. Actions like stop or restart are clear and avoid accidental changes.
Lightweight Tool
Lazydocker uses fewer resources than full GUI tools. Ideal for remote servers or developers who prefer terminal-based workflows.
Installation of lazydocker
Homebrew Install
- Install Lazydocker on macOS or Linux with Homebrew. Use brew install lazydocker, then launch with lazydocker. Quick setup recommended on Unix-based systems. Learn more at lazydocker.com.
Binary Download
- Get prebuilt Lazydocker binaries from lazydocker.com. Choose your OS, move the file to system PATH, and run via terminal. Simple method for installing without package managers.
Snap Install
- Install Lazydocker using Snap on Linux by running sudo snap install lazydocker. Provides seamless updates and smooth system integration. Check details at lazydocker.com.
Docker Run
- Use Docker to run Lazydocker with docker run and mount the Docker socket. Great for trying without installation. Lightweight option explained fully at lazydocker.com.
Use Cases & Troubleshoot
Local Development
Lazydocker simplifies managing local Docker containers. Developers use it to view logs, restart services, and monitor performance—all within a single terminal UI, removing the need for repetitive CLI commands.
Microservices Debugging
For microservice apps, lazydocker helps identify failing containers fast. Real-time stats and logs make it easy to catch issues like crashing services or memory leaks without switching tools.
Remote Server
Lazydocker fits perfectly in headless or SSH-only environments. It offers a Docker dashboard inside the terminal, letting DevOps teams monitor and fix containers on remote infrastructure without GUIs.
Docker Compose
Managing multi-container stacks becomes clearer with lazydocker. It visually separates services, helping spot stuck containers, view logs per service, and restart components quickly.
Training Use
Lazydocker simplifies managing local Docker containers. Developers use it to view logs, restart services, and monitor performance—all within a single terminal UI, removing the need for repetitive CLI commands.
Missing Stats
No container stats? Add your user to the Docker group, restart the shell, and verify Docker API access. Lazydocker needs permissions to show live data.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQS
What is lazydocker?
Lazydocker is a lightweight terminal UI for managing Docker containers, images, volumes, and services in a user-friendly way. It simplifies Docker workflows with a visual interface inside your terminal.
How does lazydocker help developers?
Lazydocker helps developers by offering a quick and intuitive way to monitor logs, stats, and processes without typing long Docker commands. It boosts productivity, especially during debugging or local development.
Is lazydocker a replacement for Docker Desktop?
Lazydocker is not a full replacement for Docker Desktop but serves as a fast, low-overhead alternative for managing containers via the terminal, especially on Linux servers or lightweight development setups.
Can lazydocker manage Docker Compose projects?
Lazydocker supports Docker Compose by detecting docker-compose.yml files, allowing users to navigate and manage services interactively within the UI.
Which platforms support lazydocker?
Lazydocker runs on macOS, Linux, and Windows (via WSL or native binaries). It’s a cross-platform tool designed for terminal use across all major operating systems.
How to install lazydocker on macOS?
Lazydocker installation on macOS is easy using Homebrew. Run:
brew install lazydocker
How to use lazydocker after installation?
Once installed, run lazydocker in your terminal to launch the UI. It automatically detects running containers and available Docker resources.
Does lazydocker show real-time logs and stats?
Lazydocker displays real-time logs, container stats, and health checks, providing immediate insight into container behavior and resource usage.
How to interact with containers using lazydocker?
Use lazydocker to start, stop, restart, or remove containers with simple key commands. You can also exec into containers and view detailed info.
Is lazydocker open source?
Lazydocker is open source and actively maintained. The source code is available on GitHub, welcoming contributions from the developer community.
How customizable is lazydocker?
Lazydocker allows configuration of keybindings, UI themes, and panel layouts via the YAML config file found in:
~/.config/jesseduffield/lazydocker/config.yml
Does lazydocker work without Docker running?
Lazydocker requires Docker to be running in the background. It interfaces directly with Docker’s API and cannot function without an active Docker daemon.
How often is lazydocker updated?
Lazydocker receives updates periodically. Users can check the GitHub repo for release notes and upgrade instructions to keep features and compatibility up to date.
Is lazydocker suitable for production environments?
Lazydocker is designed primarily for local development and lightweight environments. While it can be used in production, it’s not intended for high-scale orchestration.
Can lazydocker manage Docker volumes and images?
Lazydocker allows inspection and management of Docker volumes and images, including viewing, removing, and organizing them efficiently.
Why choose lazydocker over Docker CLI?
Lazydocker simplifies container management by eliminating the need to memorize complex commands. It provides a visual interface that makes container operations faster and more intuitive.
Does lazydocker support keyboard navigation?
Lazydocker features full keyboard navigation, including shortcuts for panel switching, container actions, and log viewing, making it highly efficient for terminal users.
Is lazydocker safe to use in a shared environment?
Lazydocker is as safe as the underlying Docker commands. However, caution is advised when operating on critical containers, especially when using remove or stop actions.
Where to find lazydocker documentation and support?
Lazydocker documentation is available on its https://lazydocker.com/ including installation guides, FAQs, and contribution info. Issues and discussions provide community-based support.
How to update lazydocker to the latest version?
Update lazydocker by using the same method you used for installation. For Homebrew users, run:
brew upgrade lazydocker