Kubernetes is one of the most popular tools for container orchestration that help manage containers at scale.
The Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) is a certification developed by The Linux Foundation and the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) for Kubernetes administrators, cloud administrators, and other IT professionals who manage Kubernetes instances.
Why is Kubernetes use becoming popular so quickly?
Kubernetes has been there for less than a decade but has grown in popularity to be one of the most loved platforms in the world. It is one of the most preferred systems by businesses operating on cloud platforms and technology. It automates the deployment, management, and scaling of containerized applications.
Below are four primary reasons why people love Kubernetes:
- Kubernetes is a fully open source platform, unlike other container orchestration tools.
- The software not only runs on the cloud but can even run on-prem, in a colocation facility, or even in all these places at once as a hybrid cloud solution.
- Kubernetes is a powerful tool that uses code to define or manage every aspect of the software. It makes processes more scalable, reliable, and repeatable.
- It is less fragmented than others, as the skills and resources of Kubernetes can be reused across various environments or configurations.
Certified Kubernetes Administrator Exam Details
The CKA certification exam is held online for two hours to complete and solve a set of performance-based problems. The exam focuses on testing skills required to be a successful Kubernetes Administrator.
There are five domains of the exam:
- Troubleshooting (30%): The most significant part of the CKA certification exam will cover the Kubernetes cluster troubleshooting. You will need to practice as much as possible for this part.
- Cluster Architecture and Configuration (25%): After troubleshooting, the second large section of the exam will focus on Kubernetes installation and configuration.
- Services and Networking(20%): In this section, you will be asked about Kubernetes services and networking topics.
- Workloads and Scheduling(15%): You will be asked to create robust deployments in this section.
- Storage (10%): A small section will test your knowledge about volumes and volume claims.
Exam Resources
The CKA certification exam requires you to practice as much as possible to pass. Here are some valuable resources to help you prepare for it. You can go through each course properly and then make your choice.
WHIZLABS – Certified Kubernetes Administrator
It is one of the best courses at Whizlabs for learning the fundamentals of Kubernetes administrator skills. The course has 8 hours of video content across 59 lectures and is developed by Kubernetes experts to help you clear the CKA exam.
The prerequisites are basic knowledge of YAML/JSON, containers (Docker), DevOps methodologies, and Linux administration skills.
By the end of the course, you will be skilled at designing and administering Kubernetes clusters, configuring storage and network on Kubernetes clusters, and building, troubleshooting, and securing Kubernetes clusters.
Udemy – Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) with Practice Tests
It is one of the best-selling CKA courses on Udemy. Prerequisites for the course are the basic understanding of Docker and YAML language. This course includes basic concepts and practice tests to pass the CKA exam.
After completing the video lectures and coding exercises, you will be asked to complete a series of assignments and a challenge to test your Kubernetes skill.
The course is one of the best and most affordable choices if you want real-world experience and to learn working with other students. After enrolling in the course, you will join their community of teachers and students on Slack for further interactions.
edureka – Kubernetes Certification Training Course
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Another good course created by Edureka top Kubernetes experts will help you clear the CKA certification exam on the first attempt. This course will help you learn how to set up a Kubernetes cluster, configure networking between pods, and secure the cluster against unauthorized access.
Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) Study Guide
It is the best-selling book to help you prepare for the certified Kubernetes administrator exam. The book is a study guide that will help you go through each concept in great detail.
The book will help you learn essential skills: when and how to apply Kubernetes concepts to administer and troubleshoot a production-grade cluster, solve real-world Kubernetes problems, etc.
CKA Certification Exam – FAQs
What are the prerequisites to take the exam?
There are no such mandatory prerequisites for taking the exam, but knowledge of the following topics can speed up your preparation:
Container runtime: If you are new to the container, prior knowledge of it must be.
YAML/JSON: YAML or JSON knowledge is required to learn as all Kubernetes objects will be created in these languages. YAML is mainly used because of its simplicity compared to JSON.
Linux: If you have never used or worked with Linux-based OS, then it is recommended to have a basic knowledge of it.
Vim editor: You will need to create or modify files throughout your exam preparation, so good to have prior knowledge of Vim editor.
Who is this exam for?
The certification exam is for Kubernetes administrators, cloud administrators, or other tech professionals interested in or managing Kubernetes instances.
How long is the CKA certification valid for?
The Certified Kubernetes Administrator certification is valid for three years.
What is the duration and number of questions asked in the CKA exam?
There will be 17 questions in the exam, which is 120 minutes long.
What are the domains of the CKA exam?
There are five domains of the CKA certification exam:
1. Cluster Architecture, Installation, and Configuration
2. Troubleshooting
3. Services and Networking
4. Workloads and Scheduling
5. Storage
What is the exam fee?
The cost for the exam is $375, which gives one free retake.
What is the no. of attempts?
You will get one free retake if you fail on your first attempt.
What is the passing score of the exam?
The passing mark for the CKA certification exam is 66%.
What are the testing Centers for the exam?
The exam is entirely online, and you can give the exam from home.
How to renew the CKA certification?
You can renew your certification before your current certificate expires by taking an exam and passing it.
What is an essential checklist for the exam?
Following are some points to consider before taking the exam:
1. A stable internet connection
2. A desktop device with a microphone and webcam
3. Government-issued ID and passport
4. Chrome browser to give the exam
At last, manage your time wisely throughout the exam
What does a career look like after the CKA certification?
For today’s operational roles like DevOps, cloud administrators, or other tech professionals, Kubernetes’ skills are in demand. It is a high-income skill that will get you a good job role or a promotion. After passing the exam and getting hands-on experience, you can easily succeed in your DevOps or SRE role and start earning a 6 figure salary.
Final Words
The CKA certification is highly recommended for professionals working with Kubernetes, cloud administrators, or other tech professionals interested in or managing Kubernetes instances. Now you are well aware of the exam details and have essential resources; next is to start preparing and get certified.
You may also look at Kubernetes Certification Guide.
