When it comes to managing and running applications, you might have heard about Kubernetes and Docker. They're both important tools in the world of software development, but they serve different purposes. Let's break down what each one does and how they work together.

What is Docker?

Docker is a tool that helps you create and run containers. Containers are like little packages that hold all the pieces your application needs to run. This includes the code, libraries, and system tools. With Docker, you can build these containers on your computer, test them, and then deploy them wherever you need to run your application.

For example, if you're developing a web app, you can use Docker to create a container that includes the web server, the application code, and any other necessary components. This container can then be moved to a different environment, like a cloud server, and it will run the same way it did on your computer.

What is Kubernetes?

Kubernetes, often called K8s, comes into play when you need to manage many containers. It's a system that helps you orchestrate, or manage, these containers at a large scale. If you have an application made up of many different services, each running in its own container, Kubernetes helps you coordinate and manage all of them.

Imagine you have an e-commerce site with services for handling payments, managing inventory, and processing orders. Each service runs in its own container, and Kubernetes can help you manage how these containers interact, scale them up or down as needed, and ensure they're running smoothly across multiple servers.

How Docker and Kubernetes Work Together

Docker and Kubernetes are often used together, but they have different roles. Docker is used to create and manage the individual containers, while Kubernetes is used to manage how these containers work together in a larger system.

Here's a simple way to think about it:

1. Developers use Docker to build and test their applications in containers. They can create a Docker image, which is a snapshot of the container that includes everything needed to run the application.

2. Once the Docker images are ready, they can be deployed to a Kubernetes cluster. Kubernetes then takes over, managing how these containers are run, scaled, and maintained.

Key Differences

• Purpose: Docker is for creating and running containers, while Kubernetes is for managing and orchestrating these containers at scale.

• Operations: With Docker, you use commands like docker build to create container images and docker run to start containers. Kubernetes, on the other hand, manages clusters of servers and decides where and how to run containers based on their resource needs.

• Benefits: Docker helps developers by standardizing the environment in which applications are developed and deployed. Kubernetes helps by allowing you to run complex, multi-container applications across multiple servers efficiently.

When to Use Each

• Use Docker when you're developing and testing applications. It's great for creating a consistent environment across different stages of development.

• Use Kubernetes when you need to deploy and manage applications at scale. It's ideal for production environments where you need to ensure high availability and efficient resource use.

In summary, Docker and Kubernetes are both essential tools in modern software development. Docker helps you package and run your applications in containers, while Kubernetes helps you manage those containers at a larger scale. Together, they make it easier to build, deploy, and manage complex applications.

Kubernetes is very complex if you just want to deploy a simple container. For that case, there are Managed Container Platforms such as sliplane.io, where we take care of any orchestration so you can focus on shipping.