Minimal DevContainer Template

Overview

This is a minimal, language-agnostic DevContainer setup designed for fast startup and easy extension. It provides a Docker-based development environment configured for use with Visual Studio Code Remote - Containers.

In this updated version, it integrates a custom Zsh shell setup feature, configurable with Oh My Zsh, Powerlevel10k, Meslo Nerd Fonts, plugins, and timezone support.

Features

• Based on the official mcr.microsoft.com/devcontainers/base:ubuntu image
• Non-root vscode user for safe, consistent dev workflows
• Lightweight: includes only essential tools (git, curl, bash)
• VS Code Docker extension pre-installed
• Optional advanced shell configuration via the custom shell feature
• Clean starting point for building language-specific environments

Usage

1. Clone or fork this repository:

   git clone git@github.com:jonmatum/devcontainer-minimal-template.git
   cd devcontainer-minimal-template

2. Open the folder in Visual Studio Code:

   • You will be prompted to reopen the folder in a Dev Container.

3. Customize the Dockerfile and devcontainer.json for your stack.

For example, to enable the custom shell feature:

"features": {
  "ghcr.io/jonmatum/devcontainer-features/shell:latest": {
    "timezone": "America/Costa_Rica",
    "opinionated": true
  }
}

File Structure

.devcontainer/
├── devcontainer.json

Requirements

• Docker
• Visual Studio Code
• Remote - Containers extension

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License.

More Resources

• 10 Reasons Why DevContainers Are Game Changers
• DevContainers Official Documentation

---

echo 'Pura Vida & Happy Coding!';