Best Practices for Image Lifecycle Management

Best Practices for Image Lifecycle Management

Image lifecycle management ensures security throughout image existence from creation to deletion. This includes defining standard base images, enforcing update schedules, and implementing retention policies. Automated processes ensure consistent application of lifecycle policies across all images.

Base image standardization reduces security management overhead. Rather than allowing arbitrary base images, organizations define approved bases with security hardening. These golden images receive regular updates and security patches. Teams build application images from these bases, inheriting security configurations.

Update strategies balance security with stability. Automated rebuilds when base images update ensure timely security patches. However, automatic updates might introduce breaking changes. Staged rollouts with automated testing provide confidence in updates. Critical security updates might bypass normal staging for emergency deployment.