Transforming Docker Builds with Helix: Faster, Smarter, Seamless
Helix runs AI coding agents in isolated containers, each equipped with its own full development environment. However, a significant challenge emerged: building projects with a cold Docker cache could take up to 43 minutes, leading to 7 hours of redundant compilations across multiple agents.
Here’s how we optimized the process:
- Shared BuildKit and Registry: Enables instant builds by caching layers, reducing cold start times.
- Smart Loading Mechanism: Bypasses unnecessary image loading when unchanged, cutting transfer times drastically.
- Golden Cache System: Pre-populates images to reduce cold start from 45 minutes to just 14 seconds.
These enhancements transform the developer experience. Agents can now begin working in under 30 seconds, whether it’s their first session or not.
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