Publish Docker images to registries automatically. Master Docker Hub, GitHub Container Registry (GHCR), authentication, and automated push workflows for deployable images.

Learning Objectives

Authenticate with container registries from CI

Push images to Docker Hub automatically

Use GitHub Container Registry (GHCR)

Implement secure credential management

Tag and version published images properly

Step 1

Create Docker Hub access token

Generate a secure token for CI/CD authentication.

Commands to Run

echo 'Visit: https://hub.docker.com/settings/security'

echo 'Click: New Access Token'

echo 'Description: GitHub Actions'

echo 'Permissions: Read, Write, Delete'

echo 'Copy token - you will not see it again!'

What This Does

Access tokens are more secure than passwords. They can be revoked independently and have granular permissions. Never commit tokens to Git.

Expected Outcome

Token generated and copied to clipboard. Keep it safe - you'll add it to GitHub secrets next.

Pro Tips

1
Use access tokens, never passwords in CI
2
Tokens can be revoked without changing password
3
Set minimal permissions needed
4
Store in password manager immediately
5
Never commit tokens to Git

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️Losing token before saving to GitHub secrets
⚠️Using password instead of token
⚠️Committing token in workflow file

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202 — Pushing to Container Registries