Using so called containers, docker provides (small) virtual machines, which do only contain or provide, what the creator specified in terms of operating systems, libraries and applications. It's intended to run isolated applications on Linux, Windows or macOS.
Relationship to TeX/LaTeX
Some containers (Latex on Docker hub, see below) provide Latex
Advantages
- no need to install a missing operating system on your computer
- can enhance security by isolation
- though it can run on Windows, it seems to be easier to run containers under Linux
Some experiences
- somewhat tricky to configure yourself
- not always easy to use or modify containers from other authors
- data are lost, unless you make them persistent
Where to find more
- Docker (software) on Wikipedia
- Docker hub providing containers, including trusted ones
- Docker overview
- Docker for beginners
- books on Docker from your favorite book store