Container states (created, running, paused, stopped) in Docker - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the created state mean for a Docker container?

The container has been set up but is not running yet. It is ready to start but no processes inside it are active.

beginner

Describe the running state of a Docker container.

The container is active and executing its main process. It is fully operational and can respond to commands or requests.

intermediate

What happens when a Docker container is in the paused state?

The container's processes are temporarily frozen. It uses minimal resources but can be resumed later without restarting.

beginner

Explain the stopped state of a Docker container.

The container has finished running or was manually stopped. Its processes are not running, but the container still exists and can be restarted.

beginner

How can you check the current state of all Docker containers?

Use the command docker ps -a. It lists all containers with their current states like running, exited (stopped), or created.

Which Docker container state means the container is ready but not yet running?

A created

B running

C paused

D stopped

The 'created' state means the container is set up but not running yet.

What does the 'paused' state do to a Docker container?

A Stops and removes the container

B Restarts the container

C Freezes the container's processes temporarily

D Starts the container

Pausing freezes the container's processes without stopping it completely.

Which command shows all Docker containers and their states?

A docker ps

B docker start

C docker stop

D docker ps -a

'docker ps -a' lists all containers, including stopped and created ones.

If a container is 'stopped', what does it mean?

A It has finished or was manually stopped

B It is paused temporarily

C It is running normally

D It is being created

A stopped container is not running but still exists and can be restarted.

Which state indicates a container is actively running its main process?

A created

B running

C paused

D stopped

The 'running' state means the container is active and executing.

Explain the differences between the Docker container states: created, running, paused, and stopped.

Think about what the container is doing or not doing in each state.

How can you manage and check the state of Docker containers using commands?

Focus on commands that change or show container states.