Docker and Kubernetes are essential tools for modern application deployment and management. 

Docker streamlines the creation, deployment, and execution of applications by encapsulating them in lightweight, portable containers. These containers bundle the application and its dependencies, ensuring that it runs consistently across different environments. 

Kubernetes complements Docker by providing robust orchestration capabilities. It automates the deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications, offering features like load balancing, service discovery, and automated updates. 

Together, Docker and Kubernetes offer a powerful solution for managing applications efficiently and scaling them seamlessly, making them indispensable for organizations utilizing microservices and cloud-native technologies.

Integrating Docker and Kubernetes with Secure Transfers servers involves several steps:

Set Up Docker Environment

• Install Docker: Follow the installation guide.
• Create, Build and Push Image: Image will be provided by the Secure Transfers through the client portal. 

Set Up Kubernetes

• Install Kubernetes: Use Minikube for local testing or a managed service like AWS EKS, Google GKE, or Azure AKS.
• Define Configurations: Create Deployment and Service YAML files for your MFT server.
• Apply Configurations: Deploy with kubectl apply -f <file>.yaml.

Configure and Manage

• Persistent Storage: Set up Kubernetes Persistent Volumes and Claims.
• Monitoring and Logging: Integrate tools like Prometheus and ELK stack.
• Networking and Security: Implement network policies and secure communication.

Key Features of Docker and Kubernetes 

Docker:

• Containerization: Ensures consistent, isolated environments for services.
• Scalability: Easily scales by adding or removing containers.
• Version Control: Facilitates version management and rollback of Secure Transfers applications.

Kubernetes

• Orchestration: Manages deployment, scaling, and operation of file transfer containers.
• Automatic Scaling: Adjusts the number of service instances based on demand.
• Self-Healing: Automatically replaces failed containers to maintain service availability.
• Load Balancing: Distributes traffic across Secure Transfers instances to ensure even load.