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The popularity of Kubernetes is increasing strikingly. With the many advantages it brings along, it is hard not to see why more and more companies are opting for it. From orchestrating your containers and scaling the numbers of containers running to making sure they spread evenly on the underlying nodes, Kubernetes does it all. With Kubernetes clusters, you can easily split your node pools into many different configurations.

For instance, you can set a node pool for machine-learning apps and another one to run a web service. The rapid increase in employment opportunities in the field is also the reason why so many students as well as professionals are opting for DevOps certification. If you find clusters confusing, this blog has listed everything you need to know about Kubernetes clusters.

What is a Kubernetes Cluster?

If you are a beginner and wondering what exactly is a Kubernetes cluster, we have the answer for you. In simple terms, a Kubernetes Cluster is a set of node pools. You can think of it as running a container in a cluster than running a cluster on nodes.

For a Kubernetes cluster to be operational it must comprise at least one master node and one worker node. Nodes can refer to either physical computers or virtual machines, depending on the cluster. The master node is the origin of all task assignments and controls the state of the cluster. It also coordinates various processes like scheduling and scaling applications, implementing updates, and so on.

On the other hand worker nodes are responsible for running these applications and performing tasks assigned by the master node. A Kubernetes user can organise different clusters within one physical cluster via namespace. It divides cluster resources among different teams through resource quotas. Hence, they prove ideal in complex projects or multiple teams.

What are the Advantages of a Kubernetes Cluster?

A Kubernetes cluster is a collection of nodes that run containerised applications. When you containerise an application, you package it with its dependencies and some other necessary services. They are more flexible and lightweight than virtual machines. Hence, Kubernetes clusters enable applications to be easily developed, managed and moved.

Apart from that Kubernetes clusters enable containers to run across various environments and machines including cloud-based, virtual, on-premises, physical, etc. Kubernetes clusters are also not restricted to any particular operating system, unlike virtual machines. They can share operating systems and run anywhere.

What are the Main Components of a Kubernetes Cluster?

A Kubernetes cluster comprises six main components. Out of these, each component can run on Linux or as Docker containers.

Run by the Master Node

API Server: Serves as the front end of the Kubernetes control plane and exposes a REST interface.
Scheduler: Places containers as per their resource metrics and requirements. It also makes note of unassigned pods and selects nodes for them to run on.
Controller Manager: Runs the controller processes, reconciles the cluster's actual state with its desired specifications and manages controllers like node, replication, endpoints, etc.

Run by the Worker Nodes

Kubelet: Ensures that containers are running in a pod by interacting with the Docker engine. It also makes sure that a set of provided PodSpecs and their corresponding containers are fully operational.
Kube-proxy: Maintains network rules, manages network connectivity and implements the Kubernetes service concept across nodes.
Other: Stores all cluster data and serves as a highly available constant Kubernetes backing store.

How Can You Create a Kubernetes Cluster?

After knowing all the main components of a Kubernetes cluster, are you now wondering how one creates it? The entire creation process may sound a bit complex and overwhelming, especially to a beginner. However, with a little practice, it gets better.

You can create and move a Kubernetes cluster on either a virtual or a physical machine. If you are a beginner or a new user, then it is recommended that you start creating a Kubernetes cluster by using Minikube. It is an open-source tool that can be used to create and move a simple streamlined cluster comprising only one worker node. Best part? It is compatible with Mac, Linux and Windows operating systems.

Apart from that, you can use Kubernetes patterns to automate the management of the scale of your cluster. For container-based applications, Kubernetes patterns facilitate the reuse of cloud-based architecture. It also provides a constant means of accessing and reusing existing Kubernetes architectures. So, instead of creating these complex structures over and over again on your own, you can easily tap into a reusable network of Kubernetes cluster blueprints.

Conclusion

Kubernetes cluster is emerging as a widely popular and successful field. Many companies are opting for it and many young professionals wish to pursue a career in it. To put it simply, a Kubernetes cluster is a logical container for deployment that holds components like an API server, scheduler, controller manager, etc. All in all, it houses all the elements essential for running applications successfully. As a developer, you must always remember that everything inside Kubernetes runs in a cluster. Things may change externally based on how your cluster is moved.

We at Star Agile Consulting are there for the rescue of all the aspirants who are interested in upskilling their Kubernetes skills. Sign up for our DevOps certification and learn all about the Kubernetes cluster. With this certification course, aspirants not only get to broaden their skillset but also upscale their careers. So, don't wait and check StarAgile's DevOps Certification today!

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