Docker Containers vs Images Explained

Docker containers and images are two main concepts in Docker technology, with the following differences between them:

1. An image is a read-only template that includes the filesystem, libraries, and dependencies necessary to run an application. An image can be seen as a way to package the environment required for an application to run.
2. A container is a running instance of an image, essentially acting as an executable process of the image. Containers are standalone, executable environments that include everything needed to run an application, such as code, runtime, system tools, and system libraries.
3. Images are static and cannot be modified; once created, they will not change, and only new images can be created to update them. Containers are dynamic and can be started, stopped, and deleted; they can be modified and updated.
4. Images are typically created using Dockerfiles, which define the steps and commands for building the image. Containers are created by running images, and configurations such as container name, port mappings, and resource limitations can be specified during container creation.

In conclusion, an image is a static, unchangeable template, while a container is a running instance of an image that can be modified and updated based on specific application requirements.