Post Date: December 21, 2018
Last Updated: September 22, 2026
Introduction
Docker Compose is a useful tool for defining and running multi-container Docker applications. It allows multiple containers, services, networks, and volumes to be managed using a single configuration file.
Prerequisites
Before installing Docker Compose, ensure that the following requirements are met.
Docker Installed
Docker should already be installed and running on the CentOS server.
You can verify the installed Docker version using:
docker --version
Example output:
Docker version 18.06.1-ce, build e68fc7a
Operating System
This guide is based on:
CentOS 7.6
Root or Sudo Access
The user performing the installation should have root or sudo privileges to download the Docker Compose binary and modify its permissions.
Implementation
Download Docker Compose
Docker Compose can be installed by downloading the appropriate binary from the Docker Compose GitHub releases.
Run the following command:
sudo curl -L "https://github.com/docker/compose/releases/download/1.22.0/docker-compose-$(uname -s)-$(uname -m)" -o /usr/local/bin/docker-compose
The command downloads the Docker Compose binary and places it in /usr/local/bin/.
Make Docker Compose Executable
After downloading the binary, change its permissions so that it can be executed:
sudo chmod +x /usr/local/bin/docker-compose
Verify the Docker Compose Installation
Once the installation is complete, verify the Docker Compose version:
docker-compose --version
Example output:
docker-compose version 1.23.1, build b02f1306
The exact version displayed may differ depending on the Docker Compose release installed on the server.
Conclusion
Docker Compose can be installed on CentOS 7.6 by downloading the appropriate binary, assigning executable permissions, and verifying the installation.
Once Docker Compose is installed successfully, it can be used to define and manage multi-container applications through a docker-compose.yml configuration file.
Note: CentOS 7 has reached end of life. For new deployments, consider using a currently supported operating system and a maintained Docker Compose release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Docker Compose?
Docker Compose is a tool used to define and manage applications that consist of multiple Docker containers. It allows related services to be configured and operated together.
Is Docker required before installing Docker Compose?
Yes. Docker should be installed and available on the server before using Docker Compose.
How can I verify that Docker Compose is installed?
Run:
docker-compose --version
The command should return the installed Docker Compose version.
Where is Docker Compose installed using this method?
The binary is placed under:
/usr/local/bin/docker-compose
Is this installation method suitable for newer CentOS versions?
The commands in this guide were originally written for CentOS 7.6. For newer operating systems, use a currently supported Docker Compose installation method and version.
Related Articles
- How to Convert a Docker Container to Image
- How to Save Docker Images as a TAR File
- Simple Steps to Install Docker on Ubuntu
Need Help Managing Docker Containers
Need help installing, configuring, or managing Docker Compose environments? Our team can assist with Docker deployment, container configuration, troubleshooting, security, monitoring, and ongoing server administration. Get in touch with our team here.