What is the purpose of the `docker-compose up` command?

The purpose of the docker-compose up command is to start and run all services defined in a Docker Compose file. This command initializes the containers as specified in the configuration file, creating the necessary network and volume setups based on the defined services. It effectively orchestrates the creation and startup process for multiple interconnected containers, making it easier to manage complex applications that may involve multiple services working together.

By executing this command, users can quickly deploy their multi-container applications without needing to run individual Docker commands for each container. The command ensures that each service is started in the correct order, respecting any dependencies as outlined in the Compose file. This simplifies both development and deployment processes, enabling developers to focus on application functionality rather than container management nuances.