How should I build and run containers from a company’s existing Dockerfiles?

There isn’t one universal workflow because every company structures its images and deployment process differently. Start by learning the basic Docker commands and reading the official documentation, then ask someone on the team to explain the project’s intended workflow. As a simple starting point, run `docker build -t myapp:test .` from the directory containing the Dockerfile, then start it with `docker run myapp:test`. Real projects often need ports, environment variables, volumes, build arguments, or linked services, so don’t assume those two commands are sufficient.

It’s completely normal for an intern to ask for an overview. Before using an AI tool with company code, check the company’s acceptable-use and data-handling policies, and ask what tools are approved. If allowed, an AI assistant can help explain Dockerfiles or configuration after sensitive information has been removed, but you still need to understand and verify the result.

Ask a senior developer or whoever owns the project for a short walkthrough of the current process. Find out how images are built, which registry is used, what configuration is required, and how dependencies are provided locally. Take notes and document the steps afterward. A good approach is to research first, try the task yourself, investigate any blocker, and then ask for help when you’ve been stuck for a reasonable amount of time. Don’t modify the company’s Dockerfiles until you understand why they are written that way.

Look through the repository for clues beyond the Dockerfile. CI or workflow configuration may show when images are built and which registry receives them. Search for files related to GitHub, GitLab, Forgejo, or other build systems, along with scripts, Makefiles, README files, and deployment folders. An `env.example` file can reveal which variables the container expects. A compose file is commonly used when the application needs multiple services such as a database, cache, or message broker, but its absence may mean the services are started another way.