Docker vs Kong: What are the differences?

# Introduction
In this comparison, we'll highlight the key differences between Docker and Kong.

1. **Containerization vs. API Gateway**: Docker is primarily used for containerization, allowing developers to package applications and their dependencies into isolated containers, while Kong is an API gateway that manages and secures APIs. Docker focuses on running applications in a consistent environment, whereas Kong focuses on enhancing API functionalities.

2. **Deployment Flexibility**: Docker provides flexibility in deploying applications by enabling seamless movement of containers across different environments, making it easier for developers to maintain consistency. On the other hand, Kong offers flexibility in managing API traffic, providing features like rate limiting, authentication, and logging to ensure performance and security.

3. **Scalability and Load Balancing**: Docker enables horizontal scaling by creating multiple instances of containers to distribute the workload, ensuring better performance under high traffic. Kong, as an API gateway, offers load balancing capabilities that help distribute incoming API requests across multiple servers, enhancing overall system scalability.

4. **Resource Efficiency**: Docker optimizes resource utilization by sharing the host machine's kernel with containers, allowing for lightweight and efficient execution of applications. Kong, being an API gateway, minimizes resource consumption by efficiently routing and managing API traffic without overly taxing system resources.

5. **Security Features**: Docker provides a level of security through container isolation, helping prevent interference between applications on the same host. Kong offers security features such as authentication, encryption, and access control policies to safeguard API endpoints and protect sensitive data.

6. **Monitoring and Analytics**: Docker allows monitoring container performance and resource usage through built-in tools like cAdvisor and integration with external monitoring solutions. Kong provides analytics on API traffic, user behavior, and performance metrics to help developers make informed decisions on optimizing API endpoints and enhancing user experience.

In Summary, Docker and Kong serve different purposes in the realm of software development - Docker focuses on containerization for consistent application deployment, while Kong adds value as an API gateway for managing, securing, and optimizing API traffic.