Docker and Kubernetes
Docker and Kubernetes
1
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
o Overview
2. Phases of Development
3. Architecture
o Docker Architecture
o Kubernetes Architecture
Minikube
4. Features
6. Applications
7. Future Prospects
8. Conclusion
9. References
2
1. Introduction
In today’s cloud computing world, managing and deploying software can be complex. Traditional
methods, like using virtual machines (VMs), were heavy on resources and didn't always scale
well. Containers, introduced to solve these issues, offer a lightweight solution, making
applications easier to deploy and manage.
Docker is a popular tool that helps package applications into containers. Think of a container as a
box that holds everything an application needs to run, including code, libraries, and settings. This
makes it easy to move applications between different environments, like from a developer's laptop
to a cloud server.
Kubernetes is another tool that works with containers. It helps manage and organize containers
across many computers. If we have a lot of containers running different parts of an application,
Kubernetes helps keep everything running smoothly by automating tasks like scaling and recovery
from failures.
3
This report will explain Docker and Kubernetes in detail, covering their development, features,
pros and cons, how they are used, and what the future might hold for these technologies.
Docker is primarily a containerization platform, providing the tools to package and run
applications in containers. It operates on a single host and focuses on container
management.
Both tools are often used together, with Docker handling containerization and Kubernetes
managing container orchestration at scale.
4
Why Docker?
Why Kubernetes?
2. Phase of Development
1. Initial Development (2013): Docker was created by Solomon Hykes at dotCloud. The goal was
to make it easier to run and manage applications in different environments. At this time, Docker
used Linux containers, which were not new but were made easier to use with Docker’s user-
friendly tools.
2. Introduction of Docker Containers (2014): In 2014, Docker introduced its containers, which
bundled applications and all their dependencies into a single unit. This was a significant
improvement because it made applications portable and consistent across different environments,
leading to Docker’s rapid rise in popularity.
5
4. Docker's Maturity (2018-present): Docker has continued to evolve, focusing on improving
security, performance, and integration with cloud services. Tools like Docker Desktop made it
easier for developers to use Docker on their local machines.
1. Google Borg (2003-2014): Before Kubernetes, Google used an internal system called Borg to
manage its huge number of containers. Borg was highly effective, managing millions of containers
across many servers. The success of Borg inspired the creation of Kubernetes, an open-source
version that anyone could use.
2. Open Source Kubernetes (2014): Kubernetes was made public in 2014, initially managed by
Google and later by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF). It was designed to simplify
the management of containers by automating tasks like deployment and scaling.
3. Architecture
Docker’s architecture revolves around the concept of containers and includes several key
components that work together to facilitate containerization. Below is a breakdown of its
components and how they interact:
6
1. Infrastructure (Hardware)
At the base of Docker's architecture is the physical or virtual hardware. This includes:
Physical Machines: These are the physical servers or computers where Docker will run.
They provide the necessary computational resources, such as CPU, memory, and storage.
Virtual Machines: In many setups, Docker runs on virtual machines (VMs) that are
hosted on physical servers. VMs provide a way to run multiple isolated operating systems
on the same hardware, which can then run Docker.
On top of the hardware, you have the operating system (OS), which is the software that manages
hardware resources and provides services for application programs. In Docker’s case:
Host Operating System: This is the OS installed on the physical or virtual machine.
Docker can run on various host operating systems, such as Linux, Windows, and macOS.
o Linux: Docker originally was designed for Linux and uses features of the Linux
kernel (like cgroups and namespaces) to provide containerization.
o Windows and macOS: Docker also supports these OSes by using a lightweight
virtual machine to provide a Linux environment for containers.
7
3. Docker Engine
Docker Engine is the core component that makes containerization possible. It is responsible for
creating, running, and managing Docker containers. Docker Engine includes several parts:
Docker Daemon (dockerd): The Docker Daemon is a background process that manages
Docker containers. It listens for Docker API requests and handles container creation,
execution, and monitoring. It communicates with other components of Docker and the host
OS to perform these tasks.
Docker CLI (Command Line Interface): The CLI is the tool that users interact with to
control Docker. Commands are sent to the Docker Daemon via the CLI. For example,
commands like docker run or docker build are executed through the CLI to manage
containers and images.
Docker API: This is the REST API exposed by the Docker Daemon. It allows external
applications and services to interact programmatically with Docker. For example, web
applications and automation scripts can use this API to manage containers.
Containers are the fundamental units of Docker's architecture. They package an application and its
dependencies into a single, isolated unit. Here’s how they work:
Containers: Containers are lightweight, standalone packages that include the application,
its dependencies, and everything it needs to run. They provide an isolated environment
where applications can execute without interfering with other applications or the host
system. Each container runs as a separate process on the host OS but shares the OS kernel
with other containers. It is running instance of the docker image. Containers hold entire
package to run an application.
8
Docker Images: Before containers can run, they need to be created from Docker Images.
An image is a static snapshot of a container that includes the application and its
environment. Docker Images are built from a Dockerfile, which contains instructions for
assembling the image (e.g., installing software, setting up configurations).
Application Dependencies: When creating a Docker Image, you specify all the
dependencies required for the application to run. This includes libraries, runtime
environments, and configuration files. By packaging these dependencies together, Docker
ensures that the application runs consistently across different environments (development,
testing, production).
Example Workflow:
1. Build an Image: Developers write a Dockerfile with instructions to install the application
and its dependencies. Docker uses this file to build an image.
2. Run a Container: Docker uses the built image to create a container. The container is an
executable instance of the image, isolated from other containers and the host OS.
3. Manage Containers: Docker Daemon manages the running containers. It handles tasks
like starting, stopping, and monitoring container health.
9
1. Master Node: The Master Node manages the Kubernetes cluster and controls the worker nodes.
It consists of:
API Server: The API server exposes the Kubernetes API and serves as the entry point for
all administrative tasks. It handles RESTful requests and updates the cluster state.
Controller Manager: This component manages controllers that handle routine tasks such
as scaling, replication, and health monitoring. Controllers ensure that the desired state of
the cluster is maintained.
Scheduler: The scheduler assigns newly created pods to available nodes based on resource
requirements and constraints. It ensures that pods are placed on appropriate nodes to
optimize performance and resource usage.
etcd: etcd is used to store all cluster data and configuration. It maintains the state of the
cluster and provides a reliable source of truth for the cluster’s configuration and state.
2. Worker Node: Worker Nodes run the applications and workloads. Each worker node contains:
Kubelet: The kubelet is an agent that runs on each worker node and ensures that
containers are running in the desired state. It communicates with the API server to receive
instructions and report on the status of containers.
10
Container Runtime: The container runtime (e.g., Docker, containerd) is responsible for
running and managing containers on the worker node. It interacts with the Kubernetes API
to create and manage containers based on pod specifications.
3. Pods: A Pod is the smallest deployable unit in Kubernetes. It encapsulates one or more
containers that share the same network namespace and storage. Pods enable co-located containers
to work together and communicate efficiently.
4. Services: Services provide a stable network endpoint for accessing a set of pods. They abstract
the underlying pods and provide load balancing, service discovery, and access to application
components. Services can be exposed internally within the cluster or externally to users.
5. Helm: Helm is a package manager for Kubernetes that simplifies the deployment and
management of applications. Helm uses packages called charts, which define the Kubernetes
resources needed to run an application. Helm facilitates versioning, updates, and rollback of
applications.
6. ConfigMaps and Secrets: ConfigMaps and Secrets are used to manage configuration and
sensitive information. ConfigMaps store non-sensitive configuration data, while Secrets handle
sensitive data like passwords and API keys. Both are injected into pods at runtime, allowing for
flexible and secure management of application settings.
2. Multiple Drivers: Minikube supports various drivers to run the Kubernetes cluster,
including VirtualBox, VMware, Hyper-V, and Docker. This flexibility allows users to
choose the best driver based on their operating system and preferences.
3. Local Kubernetes Development: Minikube provides a simple way to develop and test
Kubernetes applications locally before deploying them to a production cluster.
11
4. Multi-Cluster Support: Recent versions of Minikube allow running multiple clusters
simultaneously, which can be useful for testing various configurations.
Minikube Architecture
Minikube’s architecture is designed to make it easy to set up and use Kubernetes locally. Here’s a
breakdown of its key components:
Minikube CLI: The primary tool for interacting with Minikube. It provides commands to
start, stop, delete, and manage the Minikube cluster. Commands like minikube start,
minikube stop, and minikube dashboard are used to control the local Kubernetes
environment.
Virtual Machine (VM): Minikube can use a VM to run the Kubernetes cluster. Supported
VM drivers include VirtualBox, VMware, and Hyper-V. The VM provides an isolated
environment that runs the Kubernetes components.
Docker Container: Alternatively, Minikube can run the Kubernetes cluster inside a
Docker container. This option is often used on systems where running a VM is not feasible
or preferred.
3. Kubernetes Components:
Kubelet: The kubelet runs on the Minikube VM or container and manages the Kubernetes
nodes. It ensures that the desired state of the node is maintained by managing pods and
containers.
Kube-Proxy: The kube-proxy handles network communication and load balancing within
the Minikube cluster. It ensures that network traffic is properly routed to the appropriate
services and pods.
API Server: The API server is part of the Kubernetes control plane, which runs inside the
Minikube VM or container. It exposes the Kubernetes API and manages the cluster state.
12
Controller Manager and Scheduler: These components are also part of the control plane
and manage the deployment and scaling of applications, as well as scheduling pods onto
nodes.
Using Minikube
1. Installation:
Install Minikube CLI: Minikube can be installed directly from Minikube’s website.
Install VM Driver or Docker: Depending on the chosen driver, install the required
software (e.g., VirtualBox, Docker).
2. Starting Minikube:
Command: Run minikube start to initialize and start the Minikube cluster. Minikube will
download the necessary Kubernetes components, create the VM or container, and set up
the cluster.
13
3. Stopping and Deleting Minikube:
Stop: Use minikube stop to stop the Minikube cluster without deleting it. This is useful for
pausing development work.
Delete: Use minikube delete to remove the Minikube cluster and free up system resources.
Advantages:
3. Flexible Drivers: Supports multiple drivers, allowing users to choose the best option
based on their operating system and hardware.
Limitations:
1. Single-Node Cluster: Minikube’s single-node architecture may not fully replicate the
complexities of a multi-node production environment.
4. Features
14
2. Portability: Docker containers are portable. This means you can move them from a developer’s
computer to a cloud server without changing anything. This makes Docker a flexible tool for
different environments.
3. Layered Images: Docker uses a layered system for images. Each layer represents changes to
the image, allowing you to reuse and update parts of the image efficiently. This helps save space
and speeds up the process of creating and managing images.
4. Version Control and Rollback: Docker images come with versioning, which helps keep track
of changes and allows you to revert to earlier versions if needed. This is useful in continuous
integration and delivery (CI/CD) processes, where consistency is crucial.
5. Networking: Docker supports several networking options. Containers can communicate with
each other through different network modes, like bridge or overlay networks, allowing flexible
and scalable networking setups.
6. Docker Compose: Docker Compose lets you define and manage multi-container applications
using a simple YAML file. This file describes the services, networks, and volumes needed, making
it easier to set up and manage complex applications.
7. Docker Hub: Docker Hub is a cloud-based registry where Docker images are stored and
shared. It allows developers to upload and download images, facilitating collaboration and
deployment.
3. Horizontal Scaling: Kubernetes can automatically adjust the number of container replicas
based on demand. This means if your application needs more resources, Kubernetes will scale up
the number of containers to handle the load.
15
4. Load Balancing and Service Discovery: Kubernetes handles load balancing by distributing
traffic among container instances. It also provides service discovery, allowing containers to find
and communicate with each other usin stable IP addresses and DNS names.
5. Secret and Config Management: Kubernetes manages sensitive information (secrets) and
configuration settings separately from application code. This improves security and makes it easier
to manage and update settings.
6. Network Policies: Kubernetes allows you to define network policies that control how
containers communicate with each other. This is important for securing applications and managing
traffic in a multi-tenant environment.
7. Helm Charts: Helm is a package manager for Kubernetes that simplifies the deployment of
applications. Helm charts provide pre-configured templates for Kubernetes resources, making it
easier to install and manage applications.
Advantages:
2. Resource Efficiency: Docker containers are more resource-efficient than VMs because they
share the host operating system’s kernel. This means you can run many containers on a single host
without needing as many resources.
3. Platform Independence: Docker containers can run on any system with Docker installed. This
platform independence helps ensure that applications work the same way in different
environments, from development to production.
Drawbacks:
1. Security Risks: Containers share the host OS kernel, which can pose security risks if the kernel
is compromised. Proper security measures are needed to protect against vulnerabilities.
16
2. Storage Complexity: Managing persistent storage for containers can be complex. Since
containers are generally stateless, handling data storage and persistence requires additional setup.
Advantages:
3. Ecosystem Integration: Kubernetes has a rich ecosystem of tools and extensions, such as Helm
for application management and Prometheus for monitoring. This extensive ecosystem enhances
its functionality and integration capabilities.
Drawbacks:
6. Applications
1. Microservices Architectures
17
What It Is:
Imagine you have a big app, but instead of having it all in one place, you split it into
smaller, separate pieces (like different apps working together).
Separate Boxes: Each small piece runs in its own "box" (container) so they don’t mess
with each other.
Easy to Grow: If one piece needs more power, you just add more boxes.
Fix One Thing: You can change one piece without breaking everything.
What It Is:
This is a method to make sure your code is always ready to go live with minimal effort.
Same Setup Everywhere: Docker makes sure your code runs the same way whether you’re
testing it or putting it live.
Automatic: It helps set up automatic processes for testing and launching your code.
Fewer Problems: Everything works the same way everywhere, so fewer bugs.
What It Is:
Using a mix of different places to run your apps: some in the cloud, some on your own
servers.
Same Behavior: It works the same no matter where you run it.
Flexibility: Use the best option for each part of your app.
So, Docker helps by keeping different parts of your app separate, making sure your code is always
ready to launch, and letting you run your app anywhere you want.
1. Cloud-Native Applications
What It Is:
These are apps designed to run smoothly in the cloud (the internet-based servers).
Smart Management: Kubernetes helps organize and run these apps across many servers
automatically.
Scales Up Easily: If you need more power, Kubernetes can quickly add more servers or
resources.
Automatic Handling: Manages everything for you, so you don’t have to do it manually.
Works Well in the Cloud: Perfect for apps made to run in cloud environments.
What It Is:
19
Organizes Tasks: Kubernetes helps manage and run data processing tasks across many
machines.
Efficient Use: Makes sure all resources are used effectively and tasks are done properly.
3. DevOps Automation
What It Is:
DevOps is about automating and streamlining the development and operations of software.
Automates Tasks: Works with other DevOps tools to handle updates, monitoring, and more
automatically.
Efficient Management: Makes managing your software and infrastructure easier and faster.
Better Control: Helps keep everything running smoothly without constant manual work.
So, Kubernetes helps manage cloud-based apps, handle large data processing tasks, and automate
DevOps tasks to make everything run more smoothly and efficiently.
7. Future Prospects
20
2. Enhanced Security Models: Future developments in Docker will focus on improving security.
Enhanced isolation techniques and better protections at the kernel level are expected to address
security concerns and protect containerized applications.
21
8. Conclusion
This report provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview of Docker and Kubernetes. By
understanding these technologies, their development, features, advantages, applications, and future
potential, we can better appreciate their role in modern software development and deployment.
In summary, Docker and Kubernetes represent two foundational technologies that are reshaping
the landscape of software development and deployment. Docker, with its containerization
technology, has revolutionized the way applications are built, shipped, and run by providing a
consistent and isolated environment across various stages of development and deployment.
Kubernetes, on the other hand, complements Docker by offering a robust orchestration framework
that addresses the complexities of managing containerized applications at scale. Its features,
including automated deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications, provide
significant advantages in maintaining high availability and reliability in diverse environments.
Kubernetes' extensible architecture and rich ecosystem enable organizations to achieve advanced
deployment strategies, continuous integration, and continuous delivery with greater efficiency.
The integration of Docker and Kubernetes offers a powerful synergy that enhances the capability
to deploy and manage applications effectively. Docker’s containerization ensures consistency and
portability, while Kubernetes’ orchestration capabilities provide the necessary tools to scale and
manage those containers in production environments.
In conclusion, Docker and Kubernetes are not just complementary technologies but pivotal
components in the modern software development toolkit. Their adoption can lead to significant
improvements in deployment speed, scalability, and operational efficiency, ultimately enabling
organizations to deliver high-quality software more effectively and competitively.
22
9. References
1. Hykes, Solomon. "The History of Docker: How It All Began." Docker Official Blog, 2013.
7. Michael Hausenblas. Docker: A Project of the Open Container Initiative. O'Reilly Media,
2022.
23