# How to Install Docker and Run Containers on VPS

> Canonical: https://jethost.com/kb/how-to-install-docker-on-your-vps/ · Last modified: 2026-08-20T11:08:27+00:00

Docker lets you package and run applications in lightweight, isolated containers. Because JetHost VPS uses KVM with nested virtualization enabled, Docker, Podman and Kubernetes all work out of the box.

## Installing Docker (Ubuntu/Debian)

Connect over SSH and install Docker from your distribution's packages, then enable the service:

- `sudo apt update`
- `sudo apt install docker.io`
- Start it on boot: `sudo systemctl enable --now docker`
- Verify with `sudo docker run hello-world`

For the very latest release, follow the official Docker installation guide for your distribution instead of the packaged version.

## Running your first container

For example, to run Nginx and expose it on port 80: `docker run -d -p 80:80 --name web nginx`. Your site is now served from the container. Add **Docker Compose** to define multi-container apps in a single `docker-compose.yml` file.

## Going further with Kubernetes

For orchestration, lightweight **k3s** installs in one command and is perfect for a single VPS, while **kubeadm** supports full clusters. **Portainer** gives you a friendly web UI for managing containers.

## JetHost Experts Tip

Open only the ports your containers actually need in the **VPS firewall**, and avoid publishing database ports to the public internet. Containers make it easy to expose services by accident.

## Need More Help?

Docker turns your VPS into a flexible platform for shipping containers - no extra setup required. If you get stuck whne install Docker, the JetHost team is available 24/7 and usually answers in under five minutes - just [contact us](https://jethost.com/contact-us/) and we'll help you sort it out. Explore our other [VPS tutorials](https://jethost.com/kb/category/vps/) to get the most out of your server.