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Overview

The Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) certification is designed to provide a solid understanding of fundamental concepts in Kubernetes, cloud native architecture, and the tools used for modern container orchestration, application delivery, and observability. This certification serves as an entry point for those who wish to demonstrate their knowledge of Kubernetes and cloud native ecosystem without requiring deep technical experience.

Why Kubernetes matters?
  • Dominant Force: Over 60% of enterprises use Kubernetes. [Source: CNCF Survey 2023]
  • Accelerated Delivery: Reduces deployment time by 80%. [Source: DORA Report 2022]
  • Enhanced Scalability: Automates scaling for optimal performance. [Source: Kubernetes Documentation]
  • Robust Security: Offers strong security features and compliance support. [Source: Kubernetes Security Best Practices]

This tutorial aims to help you understand the core topics covered in the KCNA exam. It will outline key concepts like Kubernetes architecture, container orchestration, cloud native architecture, observability, and application delivery. By the end of this tutorial, you will be able to comprehend the foundational components of Kubernetes and cloud native technologies and how they fit into the modern development lifecycle.

Learning Objectives
  • Master Kubernetes fundamentals, container orchestration, and cloud native architecture.
  • Learn observability tools like Prometheus, and streamline application delivery with GitOps and CI/CD.
  • Understand key concepts like autoscaling, security, and cloud native best practices.

Let’s dive into the topics covered in this tutorial, designed in October 2024 for Kubernetes version 1.31. The content aligns with the Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate Certification - Linux Foundation.Even if you don’t pursue the KCNA certification, this tutorial will help you kickstart your Kubernetes and cloud native career. Demonstrating your knowledge of cloud native ecosystems is a key step toward securing your dream job.As of 2024, around 60% of Kubernetes jobs are in North America, with Europe making up 36%. Software Engineers account for 43% of the demand, and salaries in North America range from $144,030 to $202,202.

Table of Contents​

1. Kubernetes Fundamentals (46%)​

2. Container Orchestration (22%)​

3. Cloud Native Architecture (16%)​

4. Cloud Native Observability (8%)​

5. Cloud Native Application Delivery (8%)​

This tutorial will guide you through each section, offering an overview and key insights to help you prepare for the KCNA exam. Let’s dive into each topic to understand its significance in the Kubernetes and cloud native landscape.

Important Notes

Published Date: October 2024
Kubernetes Version : 1.31
Domains & Competencies: Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate Certification - Linux Foundation
Official Docs: For more in-depth knowledge, refer to the official Kubernetes documentation, which serves as the single source of truth: Kubernetes Official Documentation

K8s

References​

  1. Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), 2023. CNCF Survey 2023. Available at: https://www.cncf.io/reports/cncf-survey-2023/ [Accessed 27 October 2024].

  2. Forsgren, N., Humble, J. and Kim, G., 2022. Accelerate State of DevOps Report (DORA Report). Available at: https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops [Accessed 27 October 2024].

  3. Kubernetes, n.d. Kubernetes Documentation: Autoscaling. Available at: https://kubernetes.io/docs/tasks/run-application/horizontal-pod-autoscale/ [Accessed 27 October 2024].

  4. Kubernetes, n.d. Kubernetes Security Best Practices. Available at: https://kubernetes.io/docs/concepts/security/ [Accessed 27 October 2024].

  5. Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), 2024. The state of Kubernetes jobs in 2024 Q1. Available at: https://kube.careers [Accessed 27 October 2024].

  6. KodeKloud, 2023. What is the Kubernetes Job Market like? Available at: https://kodekloud.com [Accessed 27 October 2024].