For years, I used the same PowerShell script to spin up Business Central containers. I didn't write it. Someone shared it with me, and I just kept using it.
It worked fine most of the time. But every time I needed a new container, I had to open the script, change a few values, and figure things out again. I always felt there should be an easier way.
So, I built one.
BC Docker Manager
A VS Code extension that lets you create and manage BC Docker containers without PowerShell scripts, without Docker Desktop, and without BcContainerHelper.
What it does
- Browse every BC version from the Microsoft CDN. Sandbox or OnPrem, any country, any version.
- Create containers in 3 clicks. The wizard handles container name, credentials, EULA, image pull, health check, and networking.
- Generate launch.json, compile, publish AL apps. Connect the AL Language extension instantly. Compile inside the container. No local compiler needed.
- One click environment setup. Checks Hyper-V and Docker Engine. Fixes what's missing.
- Manage users, databases, networking, SSL. Add users, backup/restore, hosts file, certificates.
- Save container profiles. Reuse setups for different clients or projects.
Why now?
Microsoft announced that BcContainerHelper is being retired (official announcement). If you're still relying on it, this is a good time to explore other options.
Links
- Full write up: learnbeyondbc.com
- VS Code Marketplace: BC Docker Manager
- GitHub: jeffreybulanadi/bc-docker-manager
Free, MIT licensed, and open source. Feedback, issues, and PRs are welcome.
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