Automate Your Node.js Deployment (2mins) with Jenkins and Docker on EC2: A Beginner's Guide (with a Disclaimer!)

Disclaimer: This blog post outlines a general approach to automate your Node.js app's dockerization using Jenkins on EC2. Specific steps might vary depending on your environment and configuration. If you encounter issues during installation or configuration, always refer to the official documentation for the tool you're using, such as Jenkins' website for detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.

Setting the Stage:

1. EC2 Instance and Jenkins:

   • Spin up an Amazon Linux EC2 instance and follow the official Jenkins documentation ([[invalid URL removed]]([invalid URL removed])) to install and configure Jenkins. Don't forget to adjust security groups to allow access from your IP address.

2. GitHub Repository:

   • Create a new Node.js app repository on GitHub or fork an existing one to serve as your code base.

3. Docker Installation:

   • Install Docker on your EC2 instance following the official Docker documentation (https://docs.docker.com/engine/install/ubuntu/).

Dockerizing the App:

1. Building the Docker Image:

   • Create a Dockerfile describing the steps to build the Docker image of your Node.js app. Plenty of resources online can guide you through this process.

2. Testing the Image:

   • Build and run the Docker image to ensure your app functions as expected within the container. This helps catch any issues early on.

Automating with Jenkins:

1. Freestyle Project:

   • Set up a Jenkins freestyle project to automate the dockerization process. This project will automatically rebuild the image whenever code changes occur.

2. GitHub Webhook:

   • Configure a webhook on your GitHub repository to notify Jenkins of any code pushes, triggering the automation process.

Opening Up Jenkins:

1. Security Group Adjustment:

   • Modify the security group rules for your EC2 instance to allow inbound traffic from anywhere on port 8080, enabling Jenkins to receive webhook notifications from GitHub.

Triggering the Automation:

1. Code Change and Build:

   • Make a small change to your Node.js app code on GitHub. This change will automatically trigger a Jenkins build, which will execute the steps to rebuild the Docker image.

Voila, Automated Deployment!

With this setup, Jenkins takes care of building your Docker image whenever there's a code change, ensuring your Node.js app is always up-to-date and ready to deploy.

Ready to Get Started?

This blog post provided a high-level overview to get you started. Remember, if you encounter issues during installation or configuration, refer to the official documentation of the tools you're using for detailed instructions and troubleshooting. Additionally, explore online resources and tutorials to dive deeper into specific configurations and best practices for a robust deployment pipeline. Happy automating!