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Docker Compose vs Dokku: What are the differences?

Introduction

Docker Compose and Dokku are both tools used for containerization and deployment in the world of DevOps. However, they have distinct differences that make them suitable for different use cases. This markdown will outline the key differences between Docker Compose and Dokku, highlighting their unique features and functionalities.

  1. Ease of Setup and Management: Docker Compose requires manual setup and management of containers, networks, and volumes. On the other hand, Dokku provides a more streamlined experience with its one-click installation and easy management through a web-based GUI.

  2. Scalability: Docker Compose is designed for multi-container environments and is capable of scaling applications across multiple hosts and machines using swarm mode. In contrast, Dokku is more focused on single-host deployments and does not support scaling across multiple machines.

  3. Deployment Methods: While both Docker Compose and Dokku allow for container deployment, Docker Compose requires the use of a Docker host or an orchestration tool like Kubernetes. Dokku, on the other hand, simplifies the deployment process by providing a Heroku-like platform that enables easy push-to-deploy functionality.

  4. Monitoring and Logging: Docker Compose has limited built-in support for monitoring and logging, often requiring the use of third-party tools. In contrast, Dokku offers built-in support for monitoring and logging of applications, making it easier to track and troubleshoot issues.

  5. Plugins and Extensibility: Docker Compose comes with a wide range of official and community-contributed plugins, allowing for easy integration with various third-party tools and services. Dokku, although it offers some plugins, has a more limited selection and may require additional configuration for specific use cases.

  6. Backward Compatibility: Docker Compose supports backward compatibility for older versions of Docker, ensuring that applications can be run on different environments. Dokku, on the other hand, may require updates or adjustments to work with newer versions of Docker and its related components.

In summary, Docker Compose and Dokku offer distinct approaches to containerization and deployment. Docker Compose provides more scalability and flexibility for multi-container environments, while Dokku simplifies the deployment process with its easy setup and one-click deployment. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the project.

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Pros of Docker Compose
Pros of Dokku
  • 123
    Multi-container descriptor
  • 110
    Fast development environment setup
  • 79
    Easy linking of containers
  • 68
    Simple yaml configuration
  • 60
    Easy setup
  • 16
    Yml or yaml format
  • 12
    Use Standard Docker API
  • 8
    Open source
  • 5
    Go from template to application in minutes
  • 5
    Can choose Discovery Backend
  • 4
    Scalable
  • 4
    Easy configuration
  • 4
    Kubernetes integration
  • 3
    Quick and easy
  • 23
    Simple
  • 12
    Open Source
  • 11
    Built on Docker
  • 11
    Free
  • 4
    Yay, it works like a charm
  • 4
    Git deploy
  • 2
    HTTP proxy from public hostname to container IP address
  • 2
    Zero downtime deploys

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Cons of Docker Compose
Cons of Dokku
  • 9
    Tied to single machine
  • 5
    Still very volatile, changing syntax often
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    What is Docker Compose?

    With Compose, you define a multi-container application in a single file, then spin your application up in a single command which does everything that needs to be done to get it running.

    What is Dokku?

    It is an extensible, open source Platform as a Service that runs on a single server of your choice. It helps you build and manage the lifecycle of applications from building to scaling.

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    What are some alternatives to Docker Compose and Dokku?
    Kubernetes
    Kubernetes is an open source orchestration system for Docker containers. It handles scheduling onto nodes in a compute cluster and actively manages workloads to ensure that their state matches the users declared intentions.
    Docker
    The Docker Platform is the industry-leading container platform for continuous, high-velocity innovation, enabling organizations to seamlessly build and share any application — from legacy to what comes next — and securely run them anywhere
    Docker Swarm
    Swarm serves the standard Docker API, so any tool which already communicates with a Docker daemon can use Swarm to transparently scale to multiple hosts: Dokku, Compose, Krane, Deis, DockerUI, Shipyard, Drone, Jenkins... and, of course, the Docker client itself.
    Helm
    Helm is the best way to find, share, and use software built for Kubernetes.
    Ansible
    Ansible is an IT automation tool. It can configure systems, deploy software, and orchestrate more advanced IT tasks such as continuous deployments or zero downtime rolling updates. Ansible’s goals are foremost those of simplicity and maximum ease of use.
    See all alternatives