RancherOS vs boot2docker: What are the differences?

Introduction:

When comparing RancherOS and boot2docker, there are key differences that set them apart. Both are lightweight Linux distributions designed for running containerized applications, but they have distinct features that cater to different use cases.

1. Underlying System Architecture: RancherOS is designed to run Docker containers directly on an stripped-down Linux distribution that only includes the necessary components to host containers. In contrast, boot2docker is built on a tiny Linux distribution that runs Docker inside a virtual machine using VirtualBox. This fundamental difference in architecture affects how containers are managed and the performance of the overall system.

2. Management Interface: RancherOS comes with a minimalistic user interface for managing containers, system services, and networking configurations. On the other hand, boot2docker relies on the Docker Machine command-line tool for managing Docker environments. This means that RancherOS provides a more streamlined and integrated management experience out of the box.

3. Updates and Maintenance: RancherOS follows a continuous delivery model where updates are seamlessly applied to the system without disrupting running containers. In contrast, boot2docker requires manual updates and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and less efficient in a production environment. This difference in update mechanisms can impact system stability and security.

4. System Resource Requirements: Due to its minimalistic design, RancherOS has lower system resource requirements compared to boot2docker. This makes RancherOS more suitable for resource-constrained environments or for deployments where maximizing container density is a priority. On the other hand, boot2docker may require more resources to run efficiently, especially when multiple containers are involved.

5. Customization and Extensibility: RancherOS allows users to customize and extend the system by adding additional Docker containers that provide system services or tools. This approach enables users to tailor the system to their specific needs and workflows. In contrast, boot2docker has limited customization options, as it is primarily focused on providing a minimal Docker runtime environment without extensive extensibility features.

6. Community and Support: RancherOS has a dedicated community and support ecosystem that provides resources, documentation, and community-driven solutions. This can be beneficial for users seeking help or guidance when using RancherOS in production environments. On the other hand, boot2docker, while supported by Docker, may have a smaller community presence and fewer resources available for troubleshooting and support.

In Summary, RancherOS and boot2docker differ in system architecture, management interface, update mechanisms, resource requirements, customization options, and community support, catering to different use cases and preferences in containerized environments.