What is the difference between using bridge network and host network in Docker?

In Docker, there are different types of networks for containers, among which the most commonly used are bridge and host.

• bridge network — this is a virtual network created by Docker by default. Containers connected to the bridge network receive their own IP addresses within this network and can communicate with each other through these addresses. At the same time, containers from the bridge network are isolated from the host and other networks, and ports need to be forwarded to access container services from outside.

• host network — in this mode, the container uses the host's network stack directly. The container does not get a separate IP but uses the host's IP and ports. This eliminates network isolation, which can increase the performance of network operations but reduces security and isolation.

Summary:

• Use bridge when isolation and the ability to manage network rules between containers are needed.
• Use host when maximum network performance is important and network isolation is not required.

Example of running a container with host network:

docker run --network host my_image