How to Use Docker to Safely Try Out Software

Dec 15, 2021, 8:03 am EST | 5 min read Docker lets you package up software as self-sufficient containers that share their host’s kernel but look and feel like independent VMs. The software within runs with near-native performance. This makes Docker containers a great way to safely try out new packages without installing them “bare metal” on your machine. Here’s some of the techniques you can use. Why Use Docker to Try Software? Installing directly from a package manager isn’t always desirable when you’re trying software for the first time. You might not want to run an unproven daemon or network service on your hardware. Some uninstallers won’t remove every file connected to their package, leaving your machine cluttered with orphaned configs if you decide you won’t use the software long-term. In a worst case scenario, the package you download could even be malicious or compromised. Opting for a bare metal installation puts your data at risk. By the time you’re aware of a problem, attackers could already have gleaned sensitive information from their nefarious install script. Docker containers give you an isolated sandbox where you can install new packages without worrying about these concerns. C… Click below to read the full story from How To Geek
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