Just a few years, the term “Docker” might have referred to a popular clothing brand. But today, Docker has a whole new meaning.

Not to be mistaken with “Dockers” clothing, Docker is an open platform that enables software developers and system administrators to deploy app containers in Linux environments; however, some pioneering managed service providers (MSPs) also are leveraging Docker to expand the services they offer to their end customers.

Docker containers operate like virtual machines (VMs) but are much more portable than VMs and enable users to quickly move apps between clouds, data center VMs and laptops.

Marty Puranik, CEO of Gainesville, Florida-based cloud computing and hosting services provider Atlantic.net, recently told MSPmentor that Docker allows MSPs to create containers to simplify application management for customers.

“Because each Docker container holds the application and the dependent files, it makes it easier to move applications between machines without breaking things or requiring additional configuration of the host operating system,” Puranik said. “In this way, it makes it easier for the MSP to manage and to offer services such as application portability, which has traditionally been more difficult. The customer benefits because he or she will get lower prices.”

The true value of Docker containers for MSPs

Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google (GOOG) and Microsoft (MSFT) are among the technology giants that have already shown their support for Docker, and TechCrunch recently pointed out that Docker “is probably the hottest technology in developer circles these days” for a number of reasons:

As of September, at least 35,000 apps have already been “Dockerized,” and this total will likely increase, especially as more IT service providers recognize the value of Docker containers.

So how can MSPs leverage the value of Docker containers? Consider how the following companies have leveraged these containers:

Docker Inc., the company behind the open source Docker platform, is valued at around $400 million currently, according to Bloomberg. Puranik noted the open source platform could provide long-lasting value to MSPs.

“MSPs will continue to adopt Docker because it allows them to provide new services to customers, such as easier hardware upgrades, portability to different geographies and easier application and OS management,” he said. “For this reason, I expect MSPs to adopt Docker [because it can] provide new revenue opportunities.”

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