Linux containers in 500 lines of code
A developer explores the technical implementation of Linux containers by writing a minimal version in approximately 120 lines of code. The piece discusses the security implications and overlapping kernel mechanisms like cgroups and namespaces.
Why it matters
Understanding the fundamental building blocks of containerization is essential for developers to build secure and efficient software environments.
I've used Linux containers directly and indirectly for years, but I wanted to become more familiar with them. So I wrote some code. This used to be 500 lines of code, I swear, but I've revised it some since publishing; I've ended up with about 70 lines more.
I wanted specifically to find a minimal set of restrictions to run untrusted code. This isn't how you should approach containers on anything with any exposure: you should restrict everything you can. But I think it's important to know which permissions are categorically unsafe! I've tried to back up things I'm saying with links to code or people I trust, but I'd love to know if I missed anything.
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