Hadolint review
A focused, open-source Dockerfile linter with configurable checks and CI workflow support.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Hadolint is an open-source command-line linter for Dockerfiles, aimed at developers and teams that want rule-based checks in their build and CI workflows. It checks Dockerfile instructions and analyzes shell commands inside RUN instructions, then reports findings in configurable formats. Teams can tune ignored rules and severity, check trusted registries in FROM instructions, and validate required labels against a configurable schema. The focused scope suits Dockerfile quality checks; it is not a general-purpose linter for unrelated code.
CI fit is a central strength. Hadolint documents workflows and integrations for Azure DevOps Pipelines, Bitbucket Pipelines, CircleCI, Drone CI, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, Jenkins, and Travis CI. Its output options include JSON, SARIF, and JUnit, giving teams choices for consuming findings in pipeline workflows. It can be installed as a binary, run in a container, or used in CI pipelines, with cloud, self-hosted, and desktop deployment options. Choose it when Dockerfile checks belong alongside existing CI processes; choose another tool if the main need is linting beyond Dockerfiles and their inline shell commands.
The project is open source and has a free plan, with no paid tiers described here. Its configuration covers ignored rules, severity overrides, trusted registries, and a schema for required labels, while the rule checks remain centered on Dockerfiles and RUN shell commands. Documentation and community are the support channels. That makes Hadolint a practical fit for solo users through enterprise teams seeking a specialized, configurable check in their pipeline. It is a less suitable choice for teams seeking broader language coverage or a tool whose central purpose is something other than Dockerfile linting.
Hadolint pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Checks Dockerfile instructions and inline shell commands in RUN instructions.
- Supports trusted-registry checks and label validation against a configurable schema.
- Offers configurable output, rule severity, and CI workflow integrations.
- Where it doesn't
- Its scope is focused on Dockerfiles and inline shell commands.
- Rule customization is limited to ignored rules and severity overrides.
- Support channels are community and documentation.
Hadolint fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update