Containerization packages all the elements of a software such as frameworks, libraries and dependencies in a single unit. Containers are immensely popular due to their portability, efficiency and scalability.  In order to meet the demands of faster application delivery, organizations are showing a growing preference for cloud-native architectures. While this trend has further increased the efficiency of containers, it has also heightened the need for containerized app protection. Container security is conceptualized and built to protect containers from any kind of security breach at all stages of the DevOPs lifecycle. It is a continuous process and uses security controls to protect containerized environments from security breaches at every stage of the app development lifecycle.

Understanding Docker and Kubernetes

Docker is a container runtime technology that works by building, testing, and deploying applications at a faster pace than traditional methods. On the other hand, Kubernetes, commonly referred to as “K8s” are container orchestration tools that help in scaling up container systems for the purpose of managing, coordinating and scheduling containers at a higher scale. While both are essentially open-source container technologies, they work differently and perform different roles in distributing containerized applications. Docker are primarily used by developers for creating and manipulating container images and Kubernetes are used for managing multiple microservices at scale.

Best Practices to Secure Your Applications in Docker and Kubernetes

Implementing container security best practices secure the container lifecycle from the application code stage to container runtime and beyond. With security threats evolving and posing graver challenges, docker container security and kubernetes application security can be ensured by adopting best practices and integrating them with security products:

1. Secure Container Images

Container images are the foundation of containers as they include the code, system libraries, runtime and settings required to run the application. Make sure to use container images from trusted resources and regularly update them by incorporating latest security patches. Another way to secure images is by using scanning tools that detect and repair vulnerabilities. It’s also important to use immutable image tags for consistent automated builds and prevent security breaches.

2. Limit Container Privileges at Runtime

The principle of least privilege helps to secure containers by ensuring that it has only the minimum privileges required to perform tasks. You can mitigate the risk of exploitation considerably by restricting container privileges. Potential damage is limited in the event of a breach as the attacker’s access would be limited to the privileges assigned to that container. By avoiding running containers as root and using user namespaces, you can further limit container privileges.

3. Implement Access Controls

Access control measures ensure container security by giving only authorized users access to containers and their data. Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) is particularly effective when it comes to managing user permissions in Kubernetes by assigning specific roles to users and defining the actions they can perform. Sensitive data like passwords, tokens and API keys must be securely stored by using secrets management tools. These tools prevent unauthorized access by encrypting your secret codes and only providing them to containers as and when needed.

4. Isolate Container Networks

Container networks are vulnerable to attacks and even if one container gets compromised the rest of the network can get impacted. Segregating container networks and restricting communication between containers can limit the chances of threats spreading within the network. By using network namespaces you can effectively segregate your container networks. Firewalls must be deployed to prevent unauthorized access and block unwanted traffic to your containers.

5. Automate Vulnerability Scanning and Management

Manual checks are not entirely reliable to identify issues as they are prone to human error. To secure your container system and save time, implement an automated vulnerability scanning and management system. These tools work by scanning container images from creation to development, leaving no room for any vulnerabilities. They also apply patches soon after identifying vulnerabilities and limit exposure to potential threats.

6. Implement Real-Time Logging, Monitoring and Alerting

Real-time event logging, monitoring, and testing for vulnerabilities greatly enhances visibility of each component in the containerized environment. Such a system also provides continuous compliance monitoring and threat detection and rectifies misconfigurations and vulnerabilities as soon as they as they are identified.

7. Secure Container Registries

Container registries store and distribute container images and it’s vital to secure them to prevent major security breaches. You can secure your registries involves by creating strong authentication mechanisms with access granted to only authorized users. These registries should also be audited regularly to detect and contain any potential security incident.

Adopt a Proactive Approach to Container Security

The security of your container applications should not be treated as an afterthought and cannot be limited to damage control. Organizations must adopt a more proactive approach that gives higher priority to security and shifts it to the initial stages of the application development lifecycle.

It’s vital to detect and fix issues in the early part of development to ensure the delivery of secure container applications. By integrating vulnerability scanning into every stage of the CI/CD pipeline, DevOps and security can work in tandem and hasten application delivery while ensuring optimum container security.