Docker Multistage Builds: How to Optimize Your Images

Docker multistage builds enable developers to use multiple base images in a single Dockerfile, allowing complex build processes while keeping final images lightweight. By copying only necessary files between stages, developers can reduce image sizes, improve build efficiency, and simplify Dockerfile maintenance. The technique is particularly useful for separating build tools from runtime environments, such as compiling code in one stage and deploying only the compiled output in a minimal final image.