I've got my Node.js debugger set up and Docker Compose configurations running on WSL2, but I'm curious if there are any tips or tricks to optimize my local development environment. Are there specific tweaks that can improve speed or streamline the overall development process?
3 Answers
First thing you should check is that you're using multi-stage builds in your Docker setup. This technique helps make sure you're leveraging cached layers effectively, which can significantly speed up your image builds. Since your app changes often but your dependencies don’t, this will save you a lot of time. Also, look into setting up a local cache or mirror for your dependencies for even quicker access!
Have you looked into Dev Containers? They can really help in streamlining your development and deployment processes. They create a consistent development environment which can save you time and frustration with configuration issues!
One of the biggest improvements you can make is to ditch Windows altogether and go with a native Linux setup for Docker. Running Docker on a Linux host means it can utilize the Linux kernel directly without all the extra overhead that comes with Windows. If you absolutely need to work on Windows, it's worth considering using a dedicated Linux server for your Docker needs instead. It'll save you a lot of hassle in the long run!
Sounds like a lot of bias there, but I get your point. WSL can be limiting.
Isn't WSL just a way to run a Linux kernel in a VM though?