Kubernetes, an open source container orchestration platform system, allows for automated deployment, scaling and management of containerized applications. By "containerized applications" we refer to an environment whereby the operating system is virtualized and can be shared by multiple application instances.  Kubernetes ensures those containerized applications run where and when you want, and helps them find the resources and tools required to work. So now that we know what Kubernetes is, the question to ask is why is Kubernetes important?

Enterprises are looking for ways to increase efficiency and accelerate the speed of technology operations. As they move to cloud native environments they need to decrease application deployment times.  They also need to provide greater autonomy and on-demand resources for their app developers, improve CI/CD processes and deliver higher application reliability without impacting performance. Cisco ACI, the industry leader in data center networking solutions, offers these customers a ready to use, secure networking environment for Kubernetes.

By integrating with Kubernetes, Cisco ACI simplifies the user experience in deploying, scaling and managing containerized applications while still offering the controls, visibility, security and isolation required. This integration specifically enables:

1. Seamless connectivity and security for applications running on containers, VMs or Bare Metal servers.
2. Flexible policy approach by supporting native Kubernetes network policies as well as Cisco ACI Endpoint groups and Contracts to isolate applications as needed.
3. Automated load balancing through policy based routing and software-based approaches using Open vSwitch
4. Secure multi-tenant architecture to build isolated Kubernetes clusters on a given fabric using ACI policies

Enterprise customers and their development teams ultimately get a better way to manage their applications and increase overall productivity with a network that is better integrated with Kubernetes.

For those of you attending Cisco Live this week in Orlando, we have a great opportunity to learn more.  Cisco's own Camillo Rossi, Distinguished Speaker and Technical Marketing Engineer, delivers a session entitled:

Deploying Kubernetes in the Enterprise with Cisco ACI
Wednesday June 13^thfrom 8:30- 10:00 a.m. EDT.

If you cannot attend, not to worry as the session will be recorded and available for replay.

In the meantime, Cisco DevNet offers a new ACI & Kubernetes Sandbox which provides free access to any developer looking to work with Cisco platforms and APIs. This new Sandbox is built with both infrastructure and application developers in mind.  Infrastructure developers building robust cloud application platforms with strong operational and security foundations will find everything they need to install and explore the ACI CNI plugin.  For application developers, the sandbox can be used to learn more about how to apply application policies to their Kubernetes applications as part of their normal workflow.

For more information on how you can get started right away, take a look at our short video:

Related Links

Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure and Kubernetes Solution Overview

Cisco DevNet