What is Docker Security?

Understanding Docker Security

Docker Security focuses on protecting containerized applications, which present unique security challenges compared to traditional deployment models. Containers share the host operating system kernel and can have complex network interactions, creating potential attack vectors that traditional security tools might miss. Key security considerations include using minimal base images to reduce the attack surface, scanning images for vulnerabilities before deployment, implementing proper access controls, and securing the Docker daemon itself. Runtime security is particularly important—monitoring container behavior for unexpected process executions, network connections, or file system changes that might indicate compromise. Organizations should follow the principle of least privilege by limiting container capabilities and using security contexts to restrict what containers can do. Common pitfalls include running containers as root, mounting sensitive host directories, and failing to implement proper network segmentation between containers. Effective Docker security requires a defense-in-depth approach that protects the full container lifecycle from build to runtime.