Docker provides a solution for managing secrets in distributed containerized systems, even if not using Kubernetes. The built-in Swarm orchestrator offers a secure way to store and transmit sensitive information such as passwords, private keys, tokens, and API keys. Using a secret manager is recommended over hard-coding secrets or environment variables, which are less secure. Docker's secrets management service provides an automated process for keeping sensitive data secure, while also offering fine-grained control over access to the secrets. The CLI commands enable users to input secrets, exercise control over services accessing them, and list available secrets in the Swarm. External secret management alternatives such as Cloud Provider solutions are also worth considering.