Docker for Mac

Docker for Mac is an open-source platform that allows developers to create, share, and manage cloud applications, with tools optimized for individual users, education, and business environments.

Docker for macOS provides an easy, lightweight, and consistent way of delivering applications, making it a popular tool for fast and efficient experimentation, reliable deployment, and real-world operation for international clients.

Built from the ground as a platform as a service (PaaS), this utility allows users of all knowledge levels to access an industry-leading set of OS-level virtualization software that can deliver highly scalable web apps in the form of isolated containers.

The resulting web apps can be easily accessed from any modern Windows, macOS, and Linux computer, with scalable deployment options such as in-house, public cloud, or even private cloud.

Originally presented to the public as an open-source project in 2013, this PaaS product evolved dramatically over the next decade, providing a streamlined webapp platform for individuals, teams, and businesses of all sizes via five distinct packages – Docker Personal, Pro, Team, Business, and Scout.

The service is available in both free and premium versions, all providing streamlined access to a wide array of features, including automated segregation of duties, security, scalability (running multiple containers on one virtual machine host), and much more.

Key Features

• Containerization – Package an application and its dependencies into a lightweight container, making it portable and easy to deploy across different environments.
• Image Management – Create, manage, and share container images online, making it easy to collaborate with other dev teams and hosts.
• Advanced Networking – Individual containers can communicate with each other and the outside world.
• Security – Manage a large offering of security features, including container isolation, resource constraints, user access control, and more.
• Scalability – Easily scale applications up or down, depending on demand.
• Reduction in Size – Take advantage of lightweight and efficient container design, allowing developers to reduce the size and performance impact of their web apps.
• Used by Fortune 100 Companies – Scalable, reliable, and flexible Docker containers are today used by many famous companies and brands, including PayPal, AT&T, Yale, Stripe, Blue Apron, and others.

Installation and Setup

To install Docker, users can either visit the service’s official website and download the appropriate version for their operating system or access the installer via a secure FileHorse server.

Once installed, the app can be started either from the command line or through a graphical user interface.

How to Use

To start creating web apps using this service, developers first must create a metadata file that specifies the application and its dependencies, build a container image from the Dockerfile, and then run the container inside the secure cloud, local or private cloud host environment.

The app provides users access to a very powerful command-line interface and a GUI dashboard that manages containers, images, and other resources.

Due to the complexity of the operations that this platform can execute users are recommended to first check out extensive online documentation.

In addition to standalone operation, projects managed by this service can also be expanded with the use of Extension SDK – a powerful tool for automating workflows, integrations with external apps, and more.

User Interface

It provides both a command-line and a graphical user interface, providing flexible management of containers to both novices and seasoned webapp developers.

FAQ

What is Docker for Mac?
It is a powerful and scalable open-source platform that allows developers to create, share, and manage cloud applications.

Is it safe?
Yes. This app features a wide array of security services, including container isolation, resource constraints, and access control.

Alternatives

Kubernetes – An open-source cloud platform that allows developers to manage containerized web applications across multiple hosts.

Vagrant – An advanced tool for building and managing virtual machine environments.

Pricing

This service can be accessed via the following packages:

• Docker Personal – FREE app for individual developers, education, and small businesses.
• Docker Pro ($5 per month) – Advanced offering of tools for making professional web app containers.
• Docker Team ($9 per user/per month) – Build flexible apps faster with a large array of collaboration tools.
• Docker Business ($24 per user/per month) – Secure webapp development with access to centralized management dashboard user provisioning, and more.
• Docker Scout – Standalone service for software supply chain analytics and management.

System Requirements

This service is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The system requirements for the Mac version are as follows:

• OS: Modern macOS, 64-bit and updated.
• Memory: 4GB of RAM
• BIOS: Hardware Virtualization set to Enabled.

PROS

• Lightweight and efficient.
• A consistent environment for application development.
• Supports a wide range of programming languages and frameworks.
• Flexible container networking system.
• Optimized for novices and seasoned users.
• Expandable functionality for businesses of all sizes.
• Flexible pricing options.
• Free tier of use.

CONS

• Can be complex to set up and configure.
• Requires some knowledge of command-line tools.

Also Available: Download Docker for Windows