How-To

Getting started with virtualization and containers Virtualization and containers are key tools for modern software work. Virtualization creates multiple virtual machines on one physical host, each with its own OS and isolated resources. Containers take a lighter path: they package an application and its dependencies in a compact unit that shares the host OS kernel. Both approaches help you move faster, test safely, and scale with less hardware. Understanding the difference helps you pick the right tool. Think of VMs as complete, independent machines. They offer strong isolation and broad compatibility but use more memory and storage. Containers isolate processes rather than full systems, so they start quickly, use fewer resources, and fit well with microservices. ...

Getting Started with Virtualization and Containers Virtualization and containers help run software in isolated environments. A virtual machine uses a hypervisor to emulate hardware, letting you install a full guest OS. Containers share your host OS kernel and run apps in lightweight, isolated units. Both approaches make testing, learning, and deploying easier, but they fit different needs. To begin, you need a computer with some disk space and basic setup. Check that your processor supports virtualization (VT-x or AMD-V) and enable it in the BIOS if needed. Install a simple toolset: VirtualBox or Hyper-V for virtual machines, and Docker for containers. On Windows and macOS you can use Docker Desktop, which includes a small VM in the background; on Linux you can install Docker Engine directly. ...