How to use docker exec to interact with running containers

Docker's exec command is a powerful tool that allows developers to execute commands directly inside running containers without needing to restart them, making it particularly useful for debugging, modifying configurations, or inspecting the container's environment. This capability enhances development workflows by reducing downtime and enabling real-time interaction with containers, regardless of the underlying infrastructure or architecture. The exec command supports various options, such as running commands interactively, setting environment variables, or executing as a specific user, and contrasts with the docker attach command, which connects to an existing running process. The article also addresses how to troubleshoot common errors related to the exec command and highlights the benefits of using Docker for deploying applications across diverse environments.