Custom images for GitHub-hosted runners are now generally available
Custom images for GitHub-hosted runners are now generally available. Originally introduced in public preview in October 2025, this feature lets you start with a GitHub-curated base image and build your own virtual machine image tailored to your workflow needs.
By defining your runner environment up front with preinstalled tools, dependencies, certificates, and configurations, you can create faster, more consistent, and more secure workflows while reducing setup time and operational overhead. Custom images also give organizations greater control over how build environments are standardized, updated, and governed at scale.
If you’ve been using custom images during the public preview, no action is required. Your existing images and workflows will continue to work as-is.
For detailed instructions, advanced configuration options, and troubleshooting tips, see our official documentation:
You’ll find step-by-step guides, workflow examples, and best practices for using custom images with GitHub-hosted runners.