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Docker Engine
Docker Engine is the core component of the Docker platform which allows you to build, ship, and run applications and services in containers. It is a lightweight runtime and a powerful building tool that is designed to simplify the task of application development and deployment.
Docker Engine Components
The Docker Engine consists of three main components:
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Docker Daemon (dockerd): This is the main part of the Docker Engine that is responsible for running and managing containers on your host server. It listens for Docker API requests and creates, starts, stops, or removes containers.
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Docker REST API: Docker Engine exposes an API that allows you to interact with the Docker Daemon. This powerful interface allows you to interact with the Docker system, control container behavior, and access various Docker features using any programming language or application capable of sending HTTP requests.
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Docker CLI (Command Line Interface): The Docker CLI is a command-line tool that provides a convenient and user-friendly way to interact with the Docker REST API. Using the Docker CLI, you can issue commands to build, start, stop, and manage containers, networks, and volumes, among other things.
Docker Engine Editions
Docker Engine comes in two main editions, each catering to the specific needs of different developers and organizations:
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Community Edition (CE): This edition is designed for individual developers and small teams who want to get started with Docker in their environment. It offers the essential features for building and running containers and is available for free use.
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Enterprise Edition (EE): This edition is designed for large organizations and offers more features, including advanced security, enhanced management, and support. It is available as a subscription-based service, with various support tiers to meet the needs of different organization sizes and requirements.
Platforms and Architectures
Docker Engine is available for various platforms and architectures, making it an excellent choice for cross-platform development and deployment. The most common platforms supported by Docker Engine include Linux distributions (such as Ubuntu, CentOS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux), Windows Server, and macOS.
By leveraging the Docker Engine, you can ensure a consistent development environment and a predictable deployment experience, regardless of the underlying infrastructure. This flexibility and portability are among the main reasons why Docker has become such a popular choice among developers and IT professionals.