Docker and Kubernetes: Beginner's Guide for Developers 2026

Containers and orchestration are now standard in modern development. The Tech Brothers Podcast Network breaks down Docker and Kubernetes for developers. Here's what you need to know about containerization in 2026.

Docker Fundamentals

Docker packages applications with their dependencies into containers. Containers are lightweight, portable, and consistent across environments. Write a Dockerfile defining your application environment. Build an image from the Dockerfile. Run containers from images anywhere—development, staging, production. This solves "works on my machine" problems completely.

When Do You Actually Need Kubernetes?

You probably don't need Kubernetes unless you're running dozens of microservices at scale, need automatic scaling and self-healing, manage multi-cloud deployments, or have dedicated DevOps team. For most startups, Docker with simpler orchestration (Docker Compose, ECS, Cloud Run) is sufficient. K8s adds significant complexity—only adopt when you've outgrown simpler solutions.

Learning Path

Start with Docker. Master Dockerfiles, images, containers, and volumes. Then Docker Compose for local multi-service development. Only learn Kubernetes if your job requires it. Take your TBPN notebook to document commands and concepts. Join TBPN DevOps discussions to learn from engineers running containers in production.