Docker Compose Network Not Found

When using Docker Compose to deploy a set of interconnected services, it's important to create a network that allows these services to communicate with each other. However, sometimes you may encounter the error "network not found" when running your Compose file. In this guide, we'll explore some possible causes of this error and how to resolve them.

Possible Causes

Network Name Mismatch

The most common cause of the "network not found" error is a mismatch between the name of the network specified in your Compose file and the actual network that Docker has created. Make sure that the networks section of your Compose file specifies the exact same name as the network that your services are trying to connect to.

Network Not Created

Another possible cause of the error is that you have not created the network before running the Compose file. You can create a network using the docker network create command, or you can use the networks section of your Compose file to create it automatically.

Network Driver Issues

If you're using a network driver that is different from the default (bridge) driver, you may encounter issues when trying to connect your services. Make sure that the driver you're using is compatible with your services and that you've specified it correctly in your Compose file.

How to Resolve

There are several steps you can take to resolve the "network not found" error when using Docker Compose:

Step 1: Check Network Name

First, double-check that the name of the network specified in your Compose file matches the actual name of the network that Docker has created. You can use the docker network ls command to list all networks that Docker has created.

Step 2: Create the Network

If you have not created the network yet, create it using the docker network create command. Make sure to specify the same name as the one in your Compose file.

Step 3: Check Network Driver

If you're using a custom network driver, make sure that the driver is compatible with your services and that you've specified it correctly in your Compose file. You can check the driver of a network using the docker network inspect command.

Step 4: Use Default Driver

If you're unsure about which network driver to use and don't have specific requirements, stick to the default bridge driver. This will ensure compatibility with most services and prevent driver-related issues.

Conclusion

When encountering the "network not found" error in Docker Compose, there are several possible causes to consider. Make sure that your network name matches, create the network if necessary, check your network driver, and use the default driver if you're unsure. By following these steps, you'll be able to connect your services and deploy your Compose file successfully.