JFrog Container Registry

JFrog Container Registry (JCR) is a free, dedicated container registry from JFrog for managing Docker images and Helm charts. While JFrog Artifactory is a universal artifact repository, JCR is purpose-built for container workloads and provides a no-cost entry point into the JFrog ecosystem for teams that only need container and Helm chart management.

Overview

JFrog Container Registry was introduced by JFrog to offer a free alternative specifically for container image and Helm chart storage. It is based on JFrog Artifactory technology but limited to Docker/Helm formats. JCR is ideal for teams that need a reliable, production-ready container registry without the cost of a full Artifactory license, or as a starting point before upgrading to Artifactory for broader artifact management needs.

Key Features

  • Docker and Helm support: Store and manage Docker container images and Helm charts with full compatibility
  • Free forever: No licensing costs, no time limits, no usage caps on storage or pull requests
  • Web UI: Built-in web interface for browsing repositories, managing images, and viewing metadata
  • REST API: API access for CI/CD integration and automation
  • Tag management: View, manage, and delete image tags through the UI or API
  • User and permission management: Basic user management with repository-level access control
  • Security scanning integration: Optional integration with JFrog Xray for vulnerability scanning (requires separate Xray license)
  • Smart search: Search across repositories and image tags
  • Multi-architecture support: Store multi-arch images (manifest lists) for different platforms

Technical Stack

  • Language: Java (server), Go (CLI)
  • Database: Derby (embedded) or PostgreSQL (external)
  • Storage: Local filesystem, S3-compatible object storage, or NFS
  • Architecture: Standalone server with embedded reverse proxy
  • Deployment: Docker, Kubernetes (Helm chart), VM
  • API: RESTful API compatible with Docker Registry HTTP API V2

Licensing

JFrog Container Registry is free to use but is proprietary / commercial software. It is not open source. The free license covers Docker and Helm chart storage only. For support, additional formats, or advanced features like Xray security scanning, a paid JFrog Artifactory or Xray subscription is required.

Pricing

Edition Cost Notes
JFrog Container Registry Free Docker and Helm only. No usage limits. Community support.
Upgrade to Artifactory Pro Contact sales Adds 40+ formats, HA, Xray, enterprise features.

JCR is free with no published usage limits. Contact JFrog for pricing on upgrades to Artifactory or Xray add-ons.

Self-Hosting

Yes, JFrog Container Registry can be self-hosted for free. It is available as a Docker image and can be deployed on any infrastructure running Docker or Kubernetes. A valid free license key is required, which can be obtained by registering on the JFrog platform. No credit card is required for the free tier.

Official Resources