The latest tag in container images might seem convenient, but it’s a recipe for trouble in production, using this tag points to the newest image available, which could introduce unexpected behavior or bugs with an update.
For reliable and predictable deployments, use specific version tags, these tags represent tested, stable images knowing what is the exact version running simplifies troubleshooting and simplifies rollbacks to previous versions if needed.
After choosing a stable version tag, consider verifying the image integrity using checksums like SHA-256 or MD5. These checksums act like fingerprints, ensuring the downloaded image matches the one expected. Most container registries provide these checksums alongside image tags.
By adhering to these principles and practices, you can deploy with confidence and avoid production headaches!
Seriously, you need to stop using the latest tag in production!
