Docker vs. Kubernetes
Docker vs. Kubernetes is a frequently debated topic among IT professionals working with cloud computing technology, and yet, this has never produced definitive answers. In this blog post, we aim to clarify the topic, and you will find it useful whether you want a quick introduction to these two open-source projects or want to apply them in your operations.
Docker and Kubernetes are one of the most influential open-source projects of 2018. Both projects are owned separately by cloud computer giants, i.e., Docker Inc. and Google, respectively.
Understanding Docker and Kubernetes
Comparing these two open source projects together is like apple to oranges. Both these projects can work independently from one another. But Kubernetes can and does benefit a lot from Docker.
Docker
Docker is an independent software that can run multiple containerized applications on a single OS. If you are new to these technical terms, just know that containerized applications are apps and their data put inside a box, i.e., the container. Containerization is done to pack together all software codes and their dependencies for a smoother run time. Docker helps separate these containerized applications and allows each container to run on a separate host (OS).
Kubernetes
On the other hand, Kubernetes takes the same concept of Docker and turns it up to 11. If your work depends on multiple servers, you will need Kubernetes help to align Docker hosts. Imagine your Docker software is installed on multiple Operating systems. These Operating systems can be metal servers or virtual machines. Kubernetes allows you to automate container security, networking, load-balancing, and scaling with a click of a button.
Difference between Docker and Kubernetes
Now that you understand what Docker and Kubernetes are, you won’t have difficulty picking up their differences. In principle, Kubernetes is a truly independent software that can work with any containerized solution. This is because Kubernetes is just a manager overseeing your mango containers reach from one port to another (above example).
Among many options, the two most popular software Kubernetes can run with are Docker and rkt. However, Kubernetes has made most of its integration efforts with Docker, so these two are made for each other.
Similarly, Docker Inc. has its own container orchestration engine that runs smoothly. The Docker nodes have no difficulty arranging and fixating containerized applications while the Quorum layer is.
- Strongly consistent
- Holds desired state
- Blazing fast
- Secure
To elaborate on the variations in Docker and Kubernetes, we have a small side by side comparison of Kubernetes and Docker for you.
Comparison Between Docker and Kubernetes
| Parameters | Docker | Kubernetes |
|---|---|---|
| Cluster Setup | Setting up a cluster is difficult | Setting up a cluster is simple. |
| Load balancing | Automatically balances load | Manually balances load |
| Scalability | Scaling up is faster but lacks cluster strength | Scaling up is slow compared to Docker. But has stronger cluster strength |
| Node Support | Less than 2000 nodes | Up to 5000 nodes |
| Container Limit | 95,000 container limit | 300,000 containers limit |
Docker vs Kubernetes: Final Verdict
Containers are simply amazing. They help us look at services and systems in a completely different way and coincide with digitalization. Both Kubernetes and Docker are splendid on their own while sharing some downsides as well. Regardless of their shortcomings, it is evident that Docker and Kubernetes are here to stay. So it might be best for you to choose one that fits your business needs instead of hitting the old VM’s.
