Solving the Virtualization Bottleneck Using Docker Containers

Problem

Traditional virtual machines can be heavy for coursework because they require large disk space, long setup time, and careful data handling. This project explored Docker as a lighter alternative for operating systems lab environments.

Tools Used

DockerContainersWSL 2UbuntuTechnical Writing

My Contribution

I co-authored the research idea and abstract, then explained Docker's benefits for setup time, storage usage, portability, and data persistence through volume mapping.

Process / Methodology

1. Compared common pain points in VM-based operating systems coursework.
2. Studied Docker containers as a lightweight environment model.
3. Described how WSL 2 and Docker Desktop can support Windows-based students.
4. Explained volume mapping as a way to preserve files outside disposable containers.
5. Organized the proposal around practical student benefits and implementation feasibility.

Result / Output

The project produced a research and innovation writeup proposing Docker containers as a repeatable, lower-overhead lab environment for operating systems coursework.

Screenshots

Screenshots will be added under /screenshots/ when the final report assets are available.

Placeholder path: /screenshots/docker-virtualization/

What I Learned

I learned how containerization can solve practical teaching and lab setup problems, not only deployment problems. The project also improved my ability to explain technical infrastructure choices in terms of user impact.