You don't need Linux, Docker, k8s? Future with Unikernels ft. NanoVMs

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Oct 25, 2025

Ian Iberg, founder of NanoVMs and a security expert, dives deep into the world of unikernels and their transformative potential for cloud computing. He outlines how unikernels streamline applications by replacing traditional operating systems, enhancing performance while significantly reducing security vulnerabilities. Ian contrasts containers with unikernels, explaining the latter's distinct advantages. He also shares insights on the future of NanoVMs, including ongoing developments and their commitment to improved integrations, making cloud deployment simpler and more secure.

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INSIGHT

Legacy OS Design Mismatches Cloud

Linux carries decades-old multiuser, multiprocess design baggage that mismatches modern cloud single-app VMs.
That mismatch increases cost, complexity, and attack surface for cloud deployments.

ANECDOTE

How NanoVMs Started

Ian discovered unikernel papers around 2014–2016 and saw security potential that led to founding NanoVMs in 2018.
The project was closed-source initially and opened after maturity and support work.

INSIGHT

Unikernels Tailor OS For Single Apps

Unikernels replace general-purpose OS assumptions with single-application kernels tailored to cloud VMs.
This reduces processes, context switches, and potential vulnerabilities versus running full Linux per app.

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For memberships: join this channel as a member here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_mGuY4g0mggeUGM6V1osdA/joinSummaryIn this conversation, Ian discusses the evolution and significance of Unikernels and NanoVMs, emphasizing their potential to enhance security and performance in cloud computing. He explains the historical context of operating systems, the limitations of traditional systems, and how Unikernels offer a streamlined alternative. Ian also highlights the unique features of NanoVMs, their integration capabilities, and the challenges faced in the ecosystem. The discussion concludes with insights into the future of Unikernels and the ongoing developments in the field.takeaways.Unikernels are a specialized type of operating system designed for cloud environments.The evolution of operating systems has led to the need for more efficient solutions like Unikernels.Unikernels can significantly reduce security vulnerabilities compared to traditional systems.NanoVMs provide a unique approach to Unikernels with a focus on performance and security.Integrations with existing tools and libraries are crucial for the adoption of Unikernels.The ecosystem around Unikernels is still developing, with many opportunities for growth.Unikernels eliminate the need for complex orchestration and management layers.The future of Unikernels includes tighter integrations with cloud services and improved developer experiences.Security features in Unikernels are designed to address modern threats effectively.The potential for Unikernels to transform application deployment is significant, with many untapped possibilities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Unikernels and NanoVMs04:24 The Evolution of Operating Systems11:24 Understanding Unikernels vs. Traditional Systems17:20 Security Implications of Unikernels26:17 NanoVMs: Architecture and Unique Features38:44 Security Concerns in Unikernels41:05 Integration and Support for GPUs44:02 Cloud Support and Deployment45:51 Avoiding Bloat in Integrations51:54 Developer's Perspective on Unikernels59:18 Limitations and Future of UnikernelsImportant Links:https://ops.cityhttps://nanos.orghttps://repo.ops.cityhttps://nanovms.com/dev/tutorialsFor memberships: join this channel as a member here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_mGuY4g0mggeUGM6V1osdA/joinDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights!=============================================================================Like building stuff? Try out CodeCrafters and build amazing real world systems like Redis, Kafka, Sqlite. Use the link below to signup and get 40% off on paid subscription.https://app.codecrafters.io/join?via=geeknarrator=============================================================================Database internals series: https://youtu.be/yV_Zp0Mi3xsPopular playlists:Realtime streaming systems: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL7QpTxsA4se-mAKKoVOs3VcaP71X_LA-Software Engineering: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL7QpTxsA4sf6By03bot5BhKoMgxDUU17Distributed systems and databases: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL7QpTxsA4sfLDUnjBJXJGFhhz94jDd_dModern databases: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL7QpTxsA4scSeZAsCUXijtnfW5ARlrsNStay Curios! Keep Learning!