Docker lets you run applications in isolated containers. Each container has its own environment, independent from the rest of your server. This is ideal for running multiple game servers, databases or web applications on a single VPS.
Installing Docker on Ubuntu/Debian
- Update your package list:
apt update - Install prerequisites:
apt install ca-certificates curl gnupg - Add the Docker repository and install:
apt install docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io docker-compose-plugin - Verify the installation:
docker run hello-world
Basic Commands
docker ps- Show running containers.docker images- Show downloaded images.docker stop name- Stop a container.docker rm name- Remove a stopped container.docker logs name- View logs of a container.
Docker Compose
Docker Compose lets you define multiple containers in a single YAML file. Ideal for setups with a game server plus database:
services:
minecraft:
image: itzg/minecraft-server
ports:
- "25565:25565"
environment:
EULA: "TRUE"
MEMORY: "4G"
volumes:
- ./data:/data
Start with docker compose up -d and stop with docker compose down.
Does Docker use extra RAM?
The overhead is minimal (10 to 30 MB per container). The application inside the container uses the same amount of memory as it would without Docker. Containers share the host system's kernel.
Is Docker safe for game servers?
Yes. Containers provide isolation: if a game server gets compromised, the attacker cannot access the rest of your server. Combine with a firewall for the best protection.
Can I use Docker with the HostValues game panel?
The HostValues game panel (Pterodactyl) already runs on Docker. On managed hosting you do not need to install Docker yourself. On a VPS you can use Docker alongside or instead of the panel.
Tip: check out our HostValues view our VPS hosting plans for a fully managed server.