What is Container Registry
Container Registry is a centralized registry for container images compatible with Docker or OCI standards. Each image is a self-contained package that includes everything required to run an application: code, libraries, configurations, and system dependencies.
Why use Container Registry
In professional environments, a registry should not only store images, but also:
- manage access (who can upload or download images);
- ensure security (vulnerability scanning and image signing);
- integrate with CI/CD to automate builds and deployments;
- manage governance (policies, retention, replication, and auditing).
Harbor
Harbor is an enterprise-grade open-source Container Registry, developed by VMware and now part of the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF). It is a platform that allows you to securely store, manage, and distribute container images in a traceable and controlled way, providing advanced security, access control, and DevOps integration features.
Harbor centralizes container image management and adds a range of services that improve the reliability and security of the software supply chain, providing an advanced alternative to public registries such as Docker Hub.
Harbor offers several benefits compared to public registries or standard solutions such as Docker Hub:
Security
- automatic image scanning to detect vulnerabilities (CVE - Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures);
- digital image signing to ensure integrity and authenticity;
- secure access policies and integration with corporate directories;
Control and governance
- centralized management of projects and permissions;
- traceability of images and user actions;
- ability to define retention rules and automatic cleanup;
Performance and reliability
- replication between registries to ensure availability even in the event of failures;
- reduced download times thanks to the geographical proximity of mirrors;
- full control over infrastructure and data (on-premises or private cloud);
DevOps integration
- compatible with CI/CD pipelines (GitLab CI, Jenkins, ArgoCD, etc.);
- integrates with Kubernetes as a secure image source (imagePullSecrets);
- REST APIs for automation and programmatic management;
Open source and independence
- no licensing costs or vendor dependency;
- open, auditable code supported by the CNCF;
- easy to extend and customize according to business requirements.
Official Harbor documentation
See the official Harbor documentation at the following links: