Pop quiz: What technologies will potentially succeed operating system virtualization? Most pundits will tell you cloud computing or perhaps software defined data center or software-defined networking (SDN). But another potential answer involves so-called container technology like Docker. Here’s why.

Keep an eye on the Linux Foundation’s Collaboration Summit in late March. During that event, notes Christopher Tozzi, Parallels describe “Why You Need to Care About Container Virtualization.” The event program doesn’t mention Docker specifically, but it’s a safe bet that the up-and-coming container-based, open source virtualization platform will be mentioned, Tozzi noted.

Docker virtualizes individual applications rather than entire operating systems. Major cloud services providers are giving the technology a look. Plus, former Red Hat Channel Chief Roger Egan has joined Docker to launch and build that company’s channel partner program.

The VAR Guy is intrigued but our resident blogger’s chrystal ball isn’t perfect. Don’t forget, The VAR Guy once predicted that KVM (kernel-based virtual machine) would disrupt Microsoft Hyper-V and VMware vSphere. But so far, KVM remains a niche alternative — albeit a strong one.

For channel partners, the smart money remains on traditional virtualization while moving into SDN and virtualized storage. But don’t overlook Docker. Buzz about the container-centric technology — which allows you to move applications from one server to the next — continues to grow even louder.