Learn how to fix Standard_init_linux.Go:228: Exec User Process Caused: Exec Format Error. Our Docker Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

Standard_init_linux.Go:228: Exec User Process Caused: Exec Format Error

Docker is a tool that lets developers package and distribute applications along with their dependencies in an environment.

However, when we work with Docker, we are likely to run into an error message like this:

Standard_init_linux.go:228: exec user process caused: exec format error.

Today, we are going to take a look at the reasons behind this error:

• Architecture Mismatch

  A common reason for the error is an architecture mismatch between the Docker image and our host system.
• Non-Linux Executable Binary

  If the executable binary inside the Docker container is not a Linux binary, it can trigger the “exec format” error.
• Invalid Entry Point

  When the command specified in the ENTRYPOINT or CMD of our Dockerfile is not a valid binary, we will run into the “exec user” and “exec format” errors.
• Insufficient File Permissions

  If a binary in our Docker container lacks the necessary executable permissions, the Linux kernel won’t be able to run it.
• Glibc Library Version Mismatch

  Additionally, the error may occur when there is a mismatch between the version of the “glibc” library used to compile the binary and the one installed on our system.

How to Fix the Exec Format Error in Docker

After identifying the potential causes, let’s explore the solutions:

• Use a Matching Docker Image

  To avoid architecture mismatches, we have to choose a Docker image that matches our host architecture. We can achieve this by specifying the target architecture when building our Docker image.
• Rebuild with a Linux-Compatible Binary

  Furthermore, make sure the binary inside the container is built for the same architecture as the base image. We can use multi-arch image builds with tools like Docker Buildx.
• Verify Entry Point or CMD

  Then, make sure that the command specified in the ENTRYPOINT or CMD of our Dockerfile is a valid binary that the Linux Kernel can execute.
• Set Executable File Permissions

  If the error is due to insufficient file permissions, add the following line before the ENTRYPOINT in your Dockerfile:

  RUN chmod +x /path/to/your_binary_file

  This command sets the executable bit on the binary, allowing it to run.
• Rebuild with Compatible Glibc Library

  We have to rebuild our binary in the Docker container with a base image that has the same version of the “glibc” library as our host system. This will ensure compatibility and prevent the “exec format error.”

Let us know in the comments which one of the tips helped you fix the “exec format” error in Docker.

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Conclusion

In brief, our Support Techs demonstrated how to fix the Standard_init_linux.Go:228: Exec User Process Caused: Exec Format Error.