What is Docker Network Host?
A container which shares its network namespace with the Docker host machine runs in the Docker network host, also known as Docker host networking. In this option, the container utilizes the network interfaces, IP addresses, and ports of the Docker host directly rather than having its own isolated network stack. Due to this, the container acts as if it were running directly on the host computer, facilitating easy access to host resources and services without the need for network address translation (NAT) or port mapping. Applications that need to interact closely with services running on the Docker host or require high-performance networking usually utilize this networking alternative.
Host network driver
Below is an example Docker command to run a container in host networking mode:
docker run -itd --name <ContainerName> --network=host -p <HostPort>:<ContainerPort> <image-name>
docker run: A Docker container is run in this command.--network host: By selecting this option, the container will not create its own different network namespace; instead, it’s going to use the host’s network stack.- -p: H
ostPort is the port on the host machine to which you want to map the container’s port.ContainerPort the port inside the container that you want to expose. - nginx: Its Docker image containing your web server application is known as this.
What does –net=host option in Docker command really do?
For setting up networking for a container in Docker, use the –net=host option. This option enables the container to share the host machine’s network namespace. Therefore, the container will:
- Use the same IP address and hostname as the host machine.
- Have direct access to the host’s network interfaces and can communicate with other devices on the network just like any other program running on the host.
- Bypass the usual Docker container networking setup, which involves creating a virtual network and assigning a unique IP address to the container.
- We can mention the –network as a full form of the network on the command line.
List the networks on the docker using below command
docker network ls
Verify the nertwork of the conatiner on which network it is running.
docker inspect <ContainerName_or_id> | grep '"NetworkMode"'
What Is Docker Network Host ?
With removing Docker’s network virtualization expenses, the “host” network mode of Docker enables containers to share the Docker host’s network stack directly, simplifying networking. Without the need for explicit port mapping, this choice improves performance and allows smooth access to host services. MetricFire offers accurate network traffic, latency, and connectivity monitoring solutions for Docker networks. MetricFire enables users to monitor performance indicators, troubleshoot problems, and guarantee the reliability of containerized applications. Arrange an experiment with MetricFire to gain firsthand knowledge with efficient Docker network monitoring.