Docker Deployment on Linux vs. RHEL
Overview
Sewio RTLS Studio, a Docker deployment application, is optimized for native deployment on Linux Ubuntu. While Linux Docker is the natural choice for this application, deploying Docker on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 8 and 9 presents unique challenges due to the lack of native support and replacement of Docker with other containerization tools in RHEL. This document provides an overview of the deployment options and the specific disadvantages of using Docker on RHEL.
Podman
Although RHEL provides Podman as a replacement for Docker, it is not a fully equivalent solution.
CentOS
The notes below about Docker on RHEL could be largely apply to CentOS as well because CentOS is a downstream rebuild of RHEL.
Key Considerations: Docker Deployment on Linux vs. RHEL
| Aspect | Linux Ubuntu and Similar | RHEL 8/9 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Compatibility | Fully compatible with Sewio RTLS Studio’s optimization. | Requires additional effort to ensure compatibility. |
| Default Support | Docker is fully supported with official repositories. | Docker is not natively supported; requires manual setup. |
| Installation | Straightforward via Docker’s official repositories. | Manual installation using third-party repositories is necessary. |
| Internet Requirement | Minimal; mainly for updates requiring download new packages. | Required for downloading packages and verifying OS subscriptions. |
| Known Bugs | Bugs are actively addressed by Docker’s updates. | Known issues (e.g., runtime service bugs, memory leaks) with limited resolution options. |
Docker on Ubuntu vs. RHEL
Docker deployment on Ubuntu and RHEL is technically similar because both rely on the official external Docker repository for installation. However, RHEL requires additional steps for manual configuration due to the absence of native Docker support, introducing extra configuration and maintenance requirements.
For both Ubuntu and RHEL deployments, always use the latest version from Docker’s official repository to ensure compatibility and avoid issues with outdated versions.
Why RHEL Deployment Is Not Recommended
Manual Steps Required:
- Deploying Docker on RHEL involves additional setup, such as configuring external repositories and manually downloading packages.
Increased Setup Time and Risks:
- The complex process increases the chances of errors and potential security issues.
Internet Dependency:
- Internet access is mandatory for downloading Docker packages and verifying RHEL subscriptions.
Stability Concerns:
- Known issues, such as runtime service bugs and memory leaks, can affect performance, with limited support for resolution.
Conclusion
For Sewio RTLS Studio, Ubuntu is the recommended platform for Docker deployment due to its simplicity and compatibility. While Docker can be installed on RHEL, the additional manual steps make it a less reliable and more time-consuming option. Always use the latest Docker version from the official repository for the best results.