Container-Based OS Virtualization

Let's Rewind

Before continuing, let's have another quick look at what separates this virtualization technology from the others:

• Unlike with hypervisors, isolation happens from within the kernel. No layers are actually added to the standard model; they are only modified.
  
• Although more limited in diversity, it allows for a very high density (tens of containers on a single machine) as long as all containers are able to run on the same kernel.
  
• A single kernel and centralized management tools allow for comfortable global administration of all environments.

As it stands, despite its obvious merits, we believe container-based OS virtualization is not as well known and widespread as it could be, so we will be taking a closer look at the situations this technology is applied in today, and in what fields it can really shine. Keep in mind, in this next part we will not be focusing on OpenVZ specifically, but rather give a general overview of the possibilities offered by containers, as well as their downsides.