Step 1: Understanding the Requirement
The goal is to ensure reliable operations of Kubernetes at scale while minimizing the operational
overhead of managing worker node infrastructure. In this context, a solution is needed that abstracts
away the complexity of managing, scaling, and maintaining worker nodes.
Step 2: Explanation of the Options
A . Using OCI OKE managed nodes with cluster autoscalers
While this option provides managed node pools and uses cluster autoscalers to adjust resources
based on demand, it still requires some level of management for the underlying worker nodes (e.g.,
patching, upgrading, monitoring).
Operational overhead: Moderate.
B . Using OCI OKE virtual nodes
Virtual nodes in OCI OKE are a serverless option for running Kubernetes pods. They remove the need
to manage underlying worker nodes entirely.
OCI provisions resources dynamically, allowing scaling based purely on pod demand.
There’s no need for node management, patching, or infrastructure planning, which perfectly aligns
with the requirement to minimize operational overhead.
Operational overhead: Minimal.
Best Fit for This Scenario: Since the requirement emphasizes minimizing operational overhead, this is
the ideal solution.
C . Using Kubernetes cluster add-ons to automate worker node management
Kubernetes add-ons like Cluster Autoscaler or Node Problem Detector help in automating some
aspects of worker node management. However, this still requires managing worker node
infrastructure at the core level.
Operational overhead: Moderate to high.
D . Creating and managing worker nodes using OCI compute instances
This involves manually provisioning and managing compute instances for worker nodes, including
scaling, patching, and troubleshooting.
Operational overhead: High.
Not Suitable for the Requirement: This option contradicts the goal of minimizing operational
overhead.
Step 3: Why Virtual Nodes Are the Best Fit
Virtual Nodes in OCI OKE:
Virtual nodes provide serverless compute for Kubernetes pods, allowing users to run workloads
without provisioning or managing worker node infrastructure.
Scaling: Pods are automatically scheduled, and the required infrastructure is dynamically provisioned
behind the scenes.
Cost Efficiency: You only pay for the resources consumed by the running workloads.
Use Case Alignment: Eliminating the burden of worker node infrastructure management while
ensuring Kubernetes reliability at scale.
Step 4:
