Skip to content

2.2 Docker Editions and Versions

Docker provides different editions and versions to cater to various use cases and environments. Understanding these editions and versions will help you choose the most suitable one for your needs. Let's explore them in detail:

Docker Editions:

Docker Community Edition:

Docker Community Edition (CE) is the cost-free version of Docker, making it an ideal choice for developers and small teams looking to embark on their Docker journey and experiment with container-based applications. It empowers developers to effortlessly package and execute applications within standardized containers.

Accompanying this edition are two essential components: Docker Desktop and Docker Engine. Docker Desktop presents a user-friendly interface, simplifying Docker management on your computer, while Docker Engine acts as the underlying powerhouse, responsible for running the containers. Together, these components create a harmonious and streamlined workflow, facilitating the development, testing, and deployment of applications with remarkable ease.

1. Docker Desktop:

Docker Desktop is designed for developers and provides an easy-to-use interface for managing Docker on your local machine. It is available for both Windows and macOS operating systems. Here's what you need to know:

  • Docker Desktop includes the Docker engine, which is responsible for building, running, and managing containers.
  • It also comes with the Docker CLI (Command Line Interface), which allows you to interact with Docker using commands in the terminal or command prompt.
  • Docker Desktop provides a graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies container management tasks, making it beginner-friendly.
  • The GUI allows you to manage images, containers, networks, and volumes, as well as configure Docker settings.

2. Docker Engine:

Docker Engine is the core component of Docker that enables you to build, run, and manage containers. It is available for various Linux distributions. Here are the key points to understand:

  • Docker Engine is a lightweight runtime that runs and isolates containers on your Linux machine.
  • It provides a command-line interface (CLI) called Docker CLI, which allows you to interact with Docker through commands.
  • Docker Engine is the foundation of Docker, and other Docker editions, like Docker Desktop, utilize it.

Docker Enterprise Edition:

Docker Enterprise is a comprehensive platform designed for enterprise use cases. It offers additional features and capabilities to address the specific needs of larger organizations. Some important points to note:

  • Docker Enterprise includes advanced security features, such as image signing and scanning, as well as access controls and policies.
  • It provides advanced networking features to support complex network architectures and multi-container communication.
  • Docker Enterprise also offers container orchestration capabilities, allowing you to manage and scale containers across multiple machines using tools like Docker Swarm or Kubernetes.

Docker Versions:

Docker releases different versions with new features, bug fixes, and improvements. It is recommended to use the latest stable version to benefit from the latest enhancements and security patches. Here's what you should consider:

  • Docker follows a versioning scheme like MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH, where MAJOR version represents significant changes, MINOR version introduces new features, and PATCH version includes bug fixes and patches.
  • Docker releases both Community Edition (CE) and Enterprise Edition (EE) versions. The Community Edition is free, while the Enterprise Edition requires a subscription.
  • It's important to keep your Docker installation up to date to take advantage of new features and ensure security.