The developers behind Deno, the JavaScript and TypeScript runtime, are exploring the concept of JavaScript containers as a high-level alternative to traditional Linux containers. This initiative could reshape how developers think about containerization, offering a potentially simpler and more streamlined approach to running web services by leveraging the universality of JavaScript. According to Ryan Dahl, creator of both the Deno and Node.js runtimes, JavaScript’s position as a “universal scripting language” opens new possibilities for container-like abstractions that could redefine server-side development.
In a recent blog post, Dahl highlighted the enduring utility of Linux containers, popularized by Docker, for distributing server software through operating system-level virtualization. Docker revolutionized application deployment by providing dependency-free, ready-to-run software packages in the form of container images. However, Dahl suggests that browser-based JavaScript already provides a hermetic environment, and by abstracting containers to the level of JavaScript, developers could simplify workflows, reduce overhead, and improve efficiency in deploying web services.
Deno is already experimenting with these ideas, particularly through its Deno Deploy product. This platform leverages the JavaScript sandbox as a secure execution environment, offering isolation similar to Linux containers but with the flexibility to integrate technologies like WebAssembly (Wasm). Unlike traditional Linux containers, which rely on operating system-level virtualization, the JavaScript sandbox operates at a higher abstraction layer, potentially allowing for faster, leaner server solutions. Dahl expects JavaScript container technology to mature over the next few years and has emphasized Deno’s commitment to advancing this vision by actively hiring engineers to further the concept.
One of the driving forces behind this exploration is the potential for scripting languages, especially JavaScript, to make server-side programming cheaper and more accessible. Dahl argues that JavaScript, with its vast ecosystem and continued relevance, is uniquely positioned as the most future-proof scripting language. By combining the versatility of JavaScript with the power of WebAssembly, the JavaScript sandbox could provide an innovative and efficient alternative to Linux containers, marking a significant evolution in server software development