What if Kubernetes was idiot-proof?

Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) offers a managed Kubernetes experience that simplifies cluster management while maintaining flexibility. In this review, I share my experience with GKE, compare it to other Kubernetes offerings, and explore GKE Autopilot—a Heroku-like experience for Kubernetes.

TL;DR

  • GKE is the best-managed Kubernetes service I’ve used, excelling in ease of setup, maintenance, and functionality.
  • GKE Autopilot takes Kubernetes simplicity to another level, ideal for smaller teams or those wanting to focus purely on workloads.
  • The rest of Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is inconsistent; evaluate services carefully.

Traditional Kubernetes Setup

Running Kubernetes often means juggling decisions and configurations:

  • Secrets encryption, autoscaling, CNIs, CSIs, Helm, service mesh, etc.
  • Maintenance tasks: API upgrades, backups, security audits, and cost controls.

These complexities make Kubernetes powerful but intimidating, especially for teams without extensive experience.

GKE: A Standout Kubernetes Solution

Google’s GKE streamlines the Kubernetes experience:

  • Node OS: GCP’s Container-Optimized OS simplifies updates and security.
  • API Management: Automatic checks for deprecated APIs prevent upgrade headaches.
  • Batteries Included: Integrated DNS, ingress, service accounts, backups, and more.

Key Features

  1. Node Management

    • Default Container-Optimized OS: Lightweight, secure, and automatically updated.
    • Customizable for advanced needs.

  2. API Compatibility

    • Built-in checks for deprecated APIs.
    • Prevents deploying workloads with outdated configurations.

  3. Integrated Tools

    • Built-in monitoring and security auditing.
    • Automated backups and restore capabilities.
    • GCP’s managed service integrations.

  4. Simplified Scaling

    • Autoscaling options for nodes and workloads.
    • Integrated vertical and horizontal pod autoscaling.

Autopilot: Kubernetes for Everyone

GKE Autopilot abstracts node management:

  • No need to manage node sizes or configurations.
  • Pay only for running workloads (no unused capacity charges).
  • Default security features make it production-ready out of the box.

Ideal Use Cases:

  • Startups or teams without dedicated infrastructure expertise.
  • Projects where Kubernetes is a means to an end, not the focus.
  • Growth scenarios needing a scalable, low-maintenance solution.

Why GCP Might Not Be for You

While GKE shines, GCP as a whole can be hit-or-miss. Some areas to watch out for:

  • Secret Manager: Lacks advanced features like rotation metrics.
  • SSL Management: The UI is unintuitive, and automation can be tricky.
  • IAM Management: Recommendations are helpful but not easy to act on without custom scripts.

Final Thoughts

GKE offers a compelling Kubernetes experience, from novice-friendly Autopilot to advanced cluster management with GKE Standard. While GCP’s broader ecosystem has its inconsistencies, GKE itself is a standout product worth exploring for anyone serious about Kubernetes.

Getting Started

  • Terraform: Use Google’s Terraform guides to deploy a cluster.
  • Autopilot: Test the ease of deployment and scaling without worrying about nodes.

Whether you’re new to Kubernetes or a seasoned pro, GKE is worth a try. Its thoughtful defaults and integrations set it apart from other managed services.