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What Are Containers? Understanding Docker on Ubuntu

10 October 2025bpd · ubuntu

A New Way to Run Software

The ‘Ubuntu System Administration Guide’ dives into the world of containers, a lightweight alternative to traditional virtual machines. Unlike a VM, which includes a full operating system, a container packages an application and its dependencies into a single, isolated unit that runs on top of your existing OS. This makes containers incredibly fast, efficient, and portable.

Introducing Docker

Docker is the most popular platform for creating and managing containers. It allows you to package an application into a standardized ‘image’. This image can then be run on any computer that has Docker installed, solving the classic ‘it works on my machine’ problem for developers.

Installing Docker on Ubuntu

The book provides a step-by-step guide to installing Docker from its official repository to ensure you have the latest version. The process involves adding the Docker GPG key, setting up the repository, and then installing the Docker Engine with a simple `apt-get` command. Once installed, you’ll be ready to run your first container.

This post is based from content of the book Ubuntu System adminstration guide. And the book can be found here https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mattias-Hemmingsson/author/B0FF5CQX13