I'm looking for a solution similar to Docker for situations where I need to install different software temporarily. For example, in a database course where I need tools like PostgreSQL and pgAdmin, I prefer a virtualized environment to avoid cluttering my main system. In the past, I've had to install larger applications like PyCharm, Android Studio, and Blender for specific projects that I didn't need afterward. I want a way to easily remove everything after the project without leaving remnants behind. Docker seems great, but it doesn't cover every piece of software, and I'm not keen on using full virtual machines. Are there any other options out there?
2 Answers
Docker is actually a great fit for your use case! It's commonly used for exactly these situations. You can create containers for each software setup you need, and once you’re done with them, you can just remove the containers without messing with your main system. But if you're worried about available options, there are some alternatives too.
There are definitely other alternatives! For command-line tools, you could try Nix. For broader applications on Linux, you have options like Snap, AppImage, and Flatpak. They all have their pros and cons, so you might have to experiment a bit to see what fits best for you.
That’s true, but not every app might have a Docker container. It can be frustrating if you run into a limitation.