What Version of Docker Should You Use: Docker CE or Docker EE?

The choice between Docker Community Edition (CE) and Docker Enterprise Edition (EE) often boils down to the specific needs of your organization and its resources. Understanding the differences and benefits of each can help you make an informed decision. This article will walk through the features, benefits, and key distinctions between Docker CE and Docker EE.

The Basics of Docker

First, it's important to understand that Docker is a platform for developing, deploying, and running applications inside containers. Docker EE and Docker CE share the same core engine, which is responsible for the creation, deployment, and management of these containers. However, they differ significantly in terms of features, support, and cost.

Differences Between Docker CE and Docker EE

Often, the comparison between Docker CE and Docker EE is similar to that of a regular car and a luxury vehicle. Just as there are different models and features available, each with specific advantages and limitations, Docker CE and EE offer varying capabilities aimed at different user groups.

Community Edition (CE)

The Community Edition of Docker is the open-source, free version of the Docker platform. It is ideal for developers, small teams, and individuals who want to get started with Docker without the need for additional features or support. The latest stable version of Docker CE is 18.09.6. CE comes with a set of basic tools and features that allow you to run containers on a variety of platforms, including Windows 10, macOS, Azure, AWS, CentOS, Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu.

Download Docker CE directly from the Docker Store. Unlike EE, Docker CE focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of containerization without the need for additional licensing or support.

Enterprise Edition (EE)

The Enterprise Edition of Docker is a premium version that includes additional features and support options designed for larger organizations. EE offers enhanced security, management tools, and customer support, making it suitable for enterprises and large-scale deployments.

EE is a paid version, typically billed per node or server. This makes it more suitable for organizations that require advanced features such as:

Management GUI LDAP authentication for Active Directory integration 24/7 phone support Continuous integration and deployment capabilities

EE is developed and maintained by Docker Inc., which offers robust support and high-quality tools for managing containerized applications in large-scale environments. Docker EE is ideal for organizations that need these features to manage their infrastructure effectively.

Key Differences and Considerations

The primary differences between Docker CE and Docker EE lie in the support, features, and cost. Here are some key points to consider:

Support: Docker CE relies on community support through forums and documentation. EE comes with dedicated support from Docker Inc., including phone support, bug fixes, and priority access to new features. Features: EE offers advanced security, compliance, and management tools, whereas CE is geared towards simplicity and ease of use for individual developers and small teams. Cost: CE is free and open-source, making it an ideal choice for small teams or individuals. EE, on the other hand, requires a subscription or licensing fee, making it more expensive but providing a more robust set of tools and support.

Conclusion

The decision between Docker CE and Docker EE ultimately depends on your organization's needs, budget, and technical requirements. If you are a small team or an individual looking to quickly get started with Docker, Docker CE is an excellent choice. For larger organizations with complex infrastructure and a need for advanced support and features, Docker EE is a better fit.

For further information on both versions, visit the official documentation and resources provided by Docker:

Docker CE GitHub Repository Docker EE

By carefully considering your organization's requirements, you can choose the version of Docker that best fits your needs and helps you achieve your goals in containerization.