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Docker Compose profile references a service that is not enabled

Compose returns an error when a service references another service that was ignored by active profiles.

Docker Compose can fail when the active profile set excludes a referenced service, because profile filtering does not automatically enable linked or shared-resource dependencies.

Compose profile reference errorcompose

Observed message

Compose returns an error when a service references another service that was ignored by active profiles.

Why it happens

  • A service references another service through links, extends, or service namespace syntax.
  • The referenced service is assigned to a profile that is not active.
  • The Compose model assumes profile activation will automatically enable all dependencies.

How to fix it

  1. Enable the profile that contains the referenced service.
  2. Restructure the Compose file so required services are not hidden behind inactive profiles.
  3. Review service references such as links, extends, and service namespace syntax for profile-sensitive dependencies.

Official reference

Docker Docs: Compose profiles reference

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Docker Compose profile reference error: causes and fixes | Error Atlas