Kubernetes 00 - What is Kubernetes?

In today’s fast-paced world of software development and deployment, containers have revolutionized the way we build and run applications. But as your container usage grows, you’ll soon face a new challenge: how to manage and coordinate these containers across multiple servers efficiently. Enter Kubernetes, the container orchestration platform that’s taking the tech world by storm.

What is Kubernetes?

Kubernetes, often abbreviated as K8s, is a powerful container orchestration system that allows you to manage containerized applications across multiple hosts. Think of it as a conductor for your container symphony, ensuring all the pieces work together harmoniously. Originally developed by Google and released in 2015, Kubernetes has since become an open-source project maintained by an open source community. It typically runs on top of Docker, providing a set of APIs that allow you to manage your containers with ease.

Why consider Kubernetes?

As your application infrastructure grows, so does the complexity of managing it. This is where orchestration tools like Kubernetes shine. They allow many servers to act as one cohesive unit, simplifying management and scaling of your applications. But before jumping on the Kubernetes, it’s essential to assess your needs. Not every solution requires the complexity of orchestration. Consider factors like the number of servers you’re managing and how frequently your infrastructure changes. The more servers you have and the higher your rate of change, the more you’ll benefit from orchestration.

Kubernetes vs. Docker Swarm

While Kubernetes is popular, it’s not the only player in the container orchestration game. Docker Swarm, which comes built-in with Docker, is another solid option. Swarm is generally easier to deploy and manage, making it a good choice for simpler use cases. Kubernetes, on the other hand, offers more features and flexibility. It’s widely adopted, has community support, and is often the first choice for vendor integrations. Many cloud providers offer managed Kubernetes services, taking away the complexity of setup and maintenance.

Choosing the Right Orchestrator

Selecting between Kubernetes and Swarm (or any other orchestrator) depends on your specific requirements. If you need a simple, easy-to-manage solution and are already using Docker, Swarm might be the way to go. If you require more advanced features, have a complex infrastructure, or want to leverage cloud-managed services, Kubernetes could be your best bet.

Getting Started with Kubernetes

If you decide Kubernetes is right for you, the next step is choosing how to implement it. You can opt for a cloud-managed service from providers like Google, Amazon, or Microsoft, or go for a self-managed distribution like Docker Enterprise, Rancher, or OpenShift. For most users, a managed cloud service or a supported distribution is the way to go, rather than setting up and managing pure upstream Kubernetes yourself.