DevOps Guide
Docker & Kubernetes for Business Applications
Docker containers package apps; Kubernetes orchestrates them. When do business apps need them? Here's the guide.
Quick Answer
Docker: Use for consistency — dev matches prod. Kubernetes: When you have many services, need auto-scaling, or multi-environment. For simple apps: Docker yes, Kubernetes maybe later.
Table of Contents
Docker
Container = app + dependencies. Runs anywhere. Dockerfile defines image. Use for: consistent dev/prod, easy deployment. Even single-service apps benefit.
Kubernetes
Orchestrates containers. Auto-scaling, self-healing, rolling updates. Steep learning curve. Use when: many services, need orchestration. Managed (EKS, GKE) reduces ops.
When to Use
- Docker: Always for consistency. Low cost to adopt.
- Kubernetes: 5+ services, microservices, or need auto-scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need Kubernetes for a startup?
Usually no. Docker + Railway/Render/Heroku is enough. Add Kubernetes when you have a DevOps need — many services, complex deployment.