2025-03-30 –, The Nash
So you're running Kubernetes. You know it runs containers on lots of machines. Bin packing 4TW! But: Those pesky, noisy neighbors can be a real drag. That's where Kubernetes QoS comes in! Or does it? Meet the real magician behind the scenes: Linux cgroups, which enforce QoS guarantees based on your k8s configurations.
Containers are not native to the kernel; they emerge from low-level kernel concepts like cgroups, which are the backbone of Linux resource management. As such, they are used throughout the whole operating system, from the init system to each of your workloads. A deeper understanding of them will allow you to create harmony within your Kubernetes nodes, making sure that everything works well together and nothing steps on each other's toes.
By the end of this talk, you will understand:
- what cgroups are,
- the role of the different components in cgroup management,
- kubelet's QoS/cgroup configuration,
- and best practices for aligning cgroups to avoid potential issues.
Tom has a decade of experience in Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies. He has played a pivotal role in guiding multiple organizations to achieve cloud-native capabilities. His expertise in modernizing SDLC processes and operations has been a cornerstone of his career, with a focus on improving developer experience. At Mirantis, Tom is an integral part of the k0s team. He is dedicated advancing this Kubernetes distribution, driven by the ongoing pursuit of Zero Friction Kubernetes.