About This Course

This course explores Kubernetes deployments in edge computing scenarios, focusing on the K3s project and the broader cloud-native edge ecosystem. Through practical examples and labs, the course covers the deployment of applications and sensors in edge locations, leveraging open source tools and technologies tailored to low-power hardware environments.

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of deploying and managing Kubernetes in edge computing environments, incorporating the K3s project to demonstrate practical applications. It includes a study of use cases, challenges, and deployment models associated with edge computing, with an emphasis on the Linux Foundation's Edge and CNCF ecosystems.

What Students Will Learn

• Essential use cases and motivations for edge computing
• Deployment techniques using open-source tools like K3s and k3sup
• Adapting deployments for low-power devices like the Raspberry Pi
• Overcoming challenges such as partial availability and effective remote access
• Hands-on practices with Kubernetes, object storage, MQTT, and OpenFaaS
• Understanding message systems and interfacing with real sensors and hardware

Prerequisites or Skills Necessary

• Familiarity with the Linux operating system and CLI interactions
• Basic understanding or prior experience with Kubernetes deployment
• Ability to run Docker on personal computational devices

Course Coverage

• Introduction to edge compute use cases and cloud-native tools
• Deployment strategies tailored to edge scenarios
• Techniques for managing and scaling Kubernetes in constrained environments
• Fleet management, GitOps deployment models, and remote access solutions
• Practical labs involving real-world applications and sensor data

Who This Course is For

This course is suited for developers, IT professionals, and system administrators who are interested in extending their knowledge on deploying and managing Kubernetes in edge environments, particularly using the K3s project. Students and hobbyists interested in edge computing applications will also find it beneficial.

Real-World Application

Learners can apply the knowledge gained to deploy cloud-native applications in remote and resource-constrained environments efficiently. Skills acquired will also be beneficial in developing IoT solutions, managing large-scale deployments with GitOps, and ensuring robust application delivery in diverse operating conditions.

Course Syllabus

• Welcome and Course Introduction
• Ch 1. The Case for Edge Compute
• Ch 2. The Edge Compute Landscape
• Ch 3. Scaling Down and System-on-Chip Devices
• Ch 4. What Is K3s and Why Is It Needed?
• Ch 5. Setting Up Your Lab Environment
• Ch 6. Kubernetes API Primitives
• Ch 7. Functions at the Edge
• Ch 8. Command & Control and Remote Access
• Ch 9. Deployment Strategies for Applications at the Edge
• Ch 10. Challenges with Edge
• Ch 11. Further Resources
• Final Exam (for verified track participants only)