Chapter 1. Welcome to Docker
This chapter covers
- What Docker is
- An introduction to containers
- How Docker addresses software problems that most people tolerate
- When, where, and why you should use Docker
- Example: “Hello, World”
If you’re anything like me, you prefer to do only what is necessary to accomplish an unpleasant or mundane task. It’s likely that you’d prefer tools that are simple to use to great effect over those that are complex or time-consuming. If I’m right, then I think you’ll be interested in learning about Docker.
Suppose you like to try out new Linux software but are worried about running something malicious. Running that software with Docker is a great first step in protecting your computer because Docker helps even the most basic software users take advantage of powerful security tools.
If you’re a system administrator, making Docker the cornerstone of your software management toolset will save time and let you focus on high-value activities because Docker minimizes the time that you’ll spend doing mundane tasks.
If you write software, distributing your software with Docker will make it easier for your users to install and run it. Writing your software in a Docker-wrapped development environment will save you time configuring or sharing that environment, because from the perspective of your software, every environment is the same.