Implementation Process

DeepBlue's systematic approach ensured each step delivered practical value while building toward the complete solution.

Phase 1: Standardized Container Images

DeepBlue began by consolidating its scattered container build processes into a single, repeatable pipeline. This eliminated the configuration drift that was creating inconsistent behavior across client containers.

Phase 2: Persistent Storage Strategy

DeepBlue implemented a consistent storage pattern using shared/ directory mounts to PVCs, ensuring all client engagements maintain data persistence with clear upgrade paths.

Phase 3: Logging Infrastructure

Docker and Kubernetes capture container stdout/stderr automatically, making logs accessible for troubleshooting even after containers terminate.

Phase 4: Air-Gapped Capability

Recognition that some clients require completely isolated environments led to dual-path distribution supporting both custom Dockerfile builds and official prebuilt images.

"The Kubernetes Integration Advantage: DeepBlue's existing Kubernetes expertise accelerated implementation. Standard objects (Deployments, Services, Secrets, PVCs) provided the operational primitives needed for reliable, scalable CE deployments without vendor lock-in."

Operational Results

After implementing these improvements, DeepBlue's operational metrics showed clear benefits:

• Zero Licensing Costs: The Docker + Dradis CE combination continues delivering enterprise-grade security assessment capabilities without any software licensing overhead
• Standardized Deployments: Consistent container provisioning across all client engagements reduces configuration variance
• Automated Customization Management: Feature configurations and workflow adjustments propagate automatically through private registry workflow
• Enhanced Supportability: Access to container logs improves incident response time

Operational Changes:

Before: Manual container management requiring engineering time that could focus on security assessments

After: Automated operational workflows that scale with business growth

"Even when containers are terminated, we have complete audit trails accessible through standard Docker tooling."

Lessons That Apply Beyond DeepBlue

DeepBlue's experience reveals patterns that other cybersecurity teams can implement immediately to achieve similar Docker + Dradis CE cost savings:

• Persistence Strategy as Foundation: Implement clear volume mapping strategies using shared/ directory patterns for consistent upgrade behavior
• Network Architecture Simplification: Leverage existing reverse proxies (Nginx, Traefik) for TLS termination while maintaining HTTP for intra-cluster communication
• Logging as Operational Insurance: Implement log rotation and support bundle collection from day one
• Registry-Driven Consistency: Establish private registry workflows for consistent, patched application distribution
• Cost-Effective Foundation First: Start with the Docker + Dradis CE combination to establish enterprise-grade security assessment capabilities without licensing fees

The Air-Gapped Reality

The Docker + Dradis CE combination provides enterprise-grade capabilities even in restricted environments without requiring expensive licensed alternatives.

Custom Build Approach: Teams can replicate DeepBlue's git pull + patch + build workflow in air-gapped environments by maintaining local source mirrors and container registries. This preserves the zero-cost advantage while enabling complete customization.

Official Image Approach: Standard container export/import workflows enable offline distribution of prebuilt Dradis CE images to isolated environments.

Regulated industries and high-security environments can implement the same operational benefits without compromising isolation requirements.

Ready to Scale Your Operations?

Ready to improve your Dradis CE operations from manual container management to standardized enterprise deployment? DeepBlue's experience demonstrates that operational improvements are achievable while maintaining zero licensing costs.

Want to ask us a question about how Dradis CE can help scale your containerized operations?

Reach out to us on our Contact page or go ahead and request a demo.

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Dradis CE provides enterprise-grade security assessment capabilities with zero licensing costs. Deploy on Docker, Kubernetes, or Docker Swarm with the flexibility to customize for your operational needs.