What Container Runtime Do I Need?

Choosing the right container runtime engine is crucial for different use cases. Docker is a good option for developers, but there are other options like Podman, GVizor, Kata, and Firecracker for more secure and isolated environments. Kubernetes can work with different OCI compliant runtimes.

• Traditional deployment of applications can be unreliable
• Virtualization creates isolated environments but can be limiting
• Containers allow for deploying applications with all dependencies while still having access to host resources
• Docker is a good option for developers but has restrictions
• Podman can be a drop-in replacement for Docker and is more secure
• GVizor, Kata, and Firecracker are options for more isolated environments
• Kubernetes can work with different OCI compliant runtimes

The speaker explained that traditional deployment of applications can be unreliable, leading to the need for virtualization. However, virtualization can be limiting as it creates completely isolated environments. Containers allow for deploying applications with all dependencies while still having access to host resources, making them a better option. The speaker also mentioned that Docker is a good option for developers but has restrictions, and Podman can be a drop-in replacement for Docker that is more secure. Additionally, GVizor, Kata, and Firecracker are options for more isolated environments. Finally, the speaker explained that Kubernetes can work with different OCI compliant runtimes.

Docker made container technology approachable and easy to adopt, but the recent need to replace Docker has opened up several options and complexity, which can be daunting to someone new to Container technologies. Knowing what runtime engine is suited for what type of use case is crucial in making the right choice when reaching for a replacement. In this talk, Abubakar will start with a brief primer about what the Container runtime does, the common ones available, what they have in common and what sets them apart. We will also see different use cases applicable to different container runtime engines. At the end of the talk, the listener will be better informed in choosing the most preferred runtime engine for their workload.