Why Docker, Installing Docker & Deploying a container

Why Docker, Installing Docker & Deploying a container

Here's a small article introducing Docker and explaining its benefits, followed by simplified installation steps for Ubuntu Server and deploying an Nginx container. I broke each topic into sections so you wont get overwhelmed.

Why Docker?

In the world of software development and deployment, Docker has revolutionized the way applications are built, shipped, and run. Docker is a platform that uses containers to package applications with their dependencies, ensuring they work consistently across different environments.

Benefits of Using Docker

  1. Consistency Across Environments:

    • Docker ensures that your application works the same way on development, testing, and production machines, reducing the classic "it works on my machine" problem.

  2. Lightweight and Fast:

    • Containers share the host system's kernel, making them lighter and faster compared to traditional virtual machines.

  3. Portability:

    • Docker containers can run on any system with Docker installed, whether it's a local server, a cloud environment, or a CI/CD pipeline.

  4. Isolation:

    • Each Docker container runs in its own isolated environment, preventing conflicts between different applications and dependencies.

  5. Scalability:

    • Easily scale applications up or down by running multiple containers, making Docker an excellent choice for microservices architecture.

  6. Simplified Deployment:

    • With Docker images, deployment becomes a straightforward process. Once built, an image can be deployed anywhere Docker runs.

Common Use Cases for Docker

  • Development Environments: Create consistent and replicable development setups.
  • Microservices: Deploy microservices as independent containers that can be updated individually.
  • CI/CD Pipelines: Integrate Docker into your continuous integration and delivery pipelines.
  • Application Testing: Easily spin up test environments that mirror production configurations.

Simplified Docker Installation on Ubuntu Server

Guide To Deploy First Container

Here's a Complete Guide on deploying an Nginx container, verifying it works, stopping and removing the container, and finally removing the Nginx container image.