What are containers in Linux and what are their advantages?

A very common topic in the Linux universe is the creation of containers, which are responsible for performing specific tasks within the operating system, facilitating the routine of those who use the OS professionally.

This feature allows the optimization of time and agility, since they bring together strategic processes within Linux, perfect for those who work with development and programming.

Despite being very popular, the use of containers can cause confusion among beginners in the business.

With that in mind, the Linux Certification team developed this complete content, with everything you need to know about the topic. Just continue reading. Follow up!

Containers and VMs on Linux: what are they?

Containers and virtual machines (virtual machines) are excellent ways to test, develop, and produce new systems, with a low price and easy handling.

Each of these tools has its own features and functionalities. You can choose the one that best matches your goals and expectations to start using.

Virtual machines (VMs)

Virtual machines (VM) are software that allows the execution of several programs at the same time, in different languages, on the same operating system.

A good example of a virtual machine is VirtualBox, a free open source software that can be used on any operating system, from Windows to Linux and MacOS.

With VMs it is possible to choose an operating system and run it on the operating system already installed on the same hardware.

Thus, the main objective of virtual machines is to allow an operating system to be used without replacing the one already installed, allowing the development of software in other languages and in specific applications, present in just one OS.

Virtual machines are similar to containers in terms of virtualization, that is, they allow other functions to be performed without the need to install programs or affect system processing and storage.

Despite this, containers are able to be even more specific and create isolated environments, divided by processing layers.

Containers

Containers are a combination of processes and functionalities present in the operating system, which allow virtualizing certain activities, such as the emulation and testing of software and programs under development.

After all, within this container is everything that the process needs to be executed and configured: from the various libraries to binary codes.

All of this is only possible because they are able to share the Linux kernel, which is fully modularized.

With it, it is possible to produce more compact systems, saving companies time and resources.

It is important to emphasize that the main difference between virtual machines and containers is the range of applications available.

Containers are designed to perform one responsibility at a time, delegating each function to a different container, while virtual machines can perform several functions simultaneously.

Thus, with containers it is possible to isolate the responsibilities and processes of each tool, making it much faster and more efficient, resulting in a fully flexible infrastructure.

This favors the performance of the systems and applications developed through them, guaranteeing resource savings for companies and greater scalability.

Benefits of using containers

Photo: Pexels | One of the main advantages of Linux containers is efficiency.

There are many benefits to using containers to develop applications and keep them running.

After all, containers make the entire process simpler and lighter, as you can see below.

Efficiency and resource savings

Because they do not occupy storage or processing space, containers are able to be super efficient and advantageous, allowing the testing, maintenance, and correction of errors and processes with incredible agility.

Resource savings are also due to the simple structure that containers provide, without the need to invest in tools and extra items, as was the case before.

As development is facilitated, more items can be produced in a short period of time, generating greater profitability for the company that adheres to this technology.

Greater portability

Another very important advantage of containers in Linux is portability, that is, if it is necessary to transport all jobs and systems created in containers to cloud platforms, for example, this is totally possible.

Not just in the cloud, but on any other operating system, hardware, or platform that is needed.

Thus, you don’t run the risk of losing your production or of being “tied” to just one system – portability brings freedom of operations.

Safety

Finally, another outstanding feature of Linux containers is the security of the data and information contained in them.

Access is restricted, available only to the user who makes use of it and to those who wish to share the project.

What is the Linux Containers Project (LXC)?

Photo: Pexels | The LXC is super complete and safe.

Linux Containers is a project whose main objective is to provide a neutral environment, without predominant distributions, offering a fully open-source platform.

With this project, the professional’s trajectory is facilitated by simple to execute commands and replicate, allowing the container initialization process to be facilitated.

Within the Linux Containers Project, it is possible to find several container options, such as LXC, which is extremely flexible and covers almost all the containment resources supported by upstream kernel.

Docker and containers: understand the relationship

Docker technology (learn more) What is Docker) allows you to create new images within layered containers, in a simple and shareable way with other users and developers. Learn about docker commands.

Docker uses the Linux kernel to create new processes and separate them according to their classes.

Thus, it is possible to maintain a secure, efficient and shareable structure, totally feasible for those who work with team development.

Although it seems complex at first glance, Docker and Linux containers are simple to execute and change when you have the right strategies and the ideal source of information.

The best way to understand everything about Docker and use it as an expert at work is to seek information and guidance from the correct source, with those who understand the subject.

Thus, the Linux Certification online Docker for DevOps course is the perfect source of knowledge. In the course, you’ll learn all about how to install Docker and Build Images.

You will also understand more deeply how Linux containers work in practice, applying knowledge with direct and effective exercises.

Learn how to set up Docker with the Linux Certification online course!

Conclusion

Have you noticed how Linux containers are great tools for everyday developers?

Containers are even better than Virtual Machines and offer incredible cost-benefit, efficiency and security.

If you like this type of content, what do you think about checking out the other articles available right here on the Linux Certification Blog?

The content that we share here is excellent sources of information and can help you stay on top of this incredible Linux universe. It’s worth checking it out!