Containers and virtualization
Containerization software is taking over across the IT industry as the new favored IT infrastructure, as it enables high-speed and high-efficiency platform and software performance. Learn about the technology, its leading tools and how to use it from experts.
Top Stories
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Tip
19 Nov 2024
Ansible vs. Docker: Differences and similarities explained
Ansible and Docker play specific roles, but when used together, Ansible's playbooks and Docker's Dockerfiles provide greater control and configurability over servers. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
18 Nov 2024
KubeCon + CloudNativeCon 2024 news coverage
This guide to the North American and European KubeCon + CloudNativeCon events covers updates to Kubernetes and other open source cloud-native technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Jun 2022
Tanzu vs. OpenShift vs. Ezmeral: 3 rivals' Kubernetes offerings
Learn how container management products from VMware, Red Hat and Hewlett Packard Enterprise compare when it comes to their overall Kubernetes strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Jun 2022
Address Hyper-V VM network issues for peak performance
Microsoft Hyper-V can sometimes experience poor network performance or connectivity problems. When that happens, there are several things you can do to resolve the problem. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2022
virtual switch (vSwitch)
A virtual switch (vSwitch) is a software program that enables one virtual machine (VM) to communicate with another. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2022
What is network virtualization? Everything you need to know
Network virtualization is a method of combining the available resources in a network to consolidate multiple physical networks, divide a network into segments or create software networks between VMs. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jun 2022
Kubernetes multi-cluster users tap service mesh alternatives
Istio service mesh is back in the spotlight since joining the CNCF, but the foundation's existing projects are preferred by IT pros focused on multi-cluster Kubernetes resiliency. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
02 Jun 2022
How to set up a K3s cluster
Admins have choices when it comes to selecting a Kubernetes distribution. One such option is K3s, which can be used for development or production. Here's how to get started. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 May 2022
A beginner's guide to Hyper-V checkpoints
Hyper-V checkpoints help mitigate problems with upgrade rollouts. They can pile up, so they require some storage space and management. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2022
5 best practices for VM patch management
'Patching is my favorite!' said no IT admin, ever. Reduce the headache by patching everything -- even the hard-to-reach components -- and testing patches before rollout. Continue Reading
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Opinion
23 May 2022
Highlights from KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe 2022
Now that KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe has come to a close, check out these updates from vendors across the conference floor. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 May 2022
How to run Docker on an Azure VM
Microsoft Azure offers a lot of container management services for enterprises to choose from. One of those options is Azure Container Instances. Here's how to get started. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 May 2022
9 managed Kubernetes services to consider
To counter the complexity and stress of running, deploying and managing Kubernetes, turn to a managed Kubernetes service. Compare and contrast nine popular tools. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
19 May 2022
Use Dapr on Kubernetes to build microservices in production
Dapr is an application runtime that targets cloud-native application development. Developers can use it to streamline their workflows. Here's how. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2022
Citi gives software supply chain security kit to OpenSSF
The financial services company's prototype system based on CNCF's software supply chain security guidelines joins OpenSSF's $150 million open source standards campaign. Continue Reading
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News
18 May 2022
Embattled New Relic cuts Kubernetes observability overhead
New Relic made its Kubernetes observability agent more efficient and added vulnerability management to its APM tool but is struggling financially as open source tools proliferate. Continue Reading
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News
16 May 2022
Kasten backup adds Kubernetes ransomware detection, security
As ransomware becomes a bigger concern for container admins, updates to the Kasten backup and disaster recovery platform for Kubernetes take a proactive security stance. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2022
Red Hat CEO: We're going SaaS-first with OpenShift
Red Hat President and CEO Paul Cormier offers a glimpse into the OpenShift roadmap as IT reckons with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and hybrid work. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2022
Red Hat CEO on IBM, VMware and hybrid cloud coopetition
Two years into his tenure as Red Hat CEO, Paul Cormier discusses his company's relationship with IBM and how it's competing with its own partners in hybrid cloud. Continue Reading
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News
11 May 2022
OpenShift boosts DevSecOps with VMware Tanzu in its rear view
Red Hat expands OpenShift, with VMware Tanzu poised to capture at least some of its vast vSphere install base as enterprises get serious about container-based DevOps platforms. Continue Reading
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News
09 May 2022
Upstream Istio service mesh hones IT ops user experience
The Istio service mesh community has revealed further plans to simplify the project's notoriously difficult 'Day 2' management, which can't all be addressed by downstream vendors. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 May 2022
Future of containers faces tools surplus, skills shortage
Container adoption seems inevitable, but it's not going to be smooth sailing. Experts weigh in on the state of container management -- and where it needs to go. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2022
How to compare Docker images with container-diff
You could pay for a vendor to analyze container images for you, or you could use container-diff for free. Compare container images before deployment to avoid unfortunate mishaps. Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2022
Software supply chain security risks surround Kubernetes
Securing Kubernetes is complex enough, but its associations with the wider open source ecosystem and automated deployments add supply chain security concerns to the equation. Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2022
Kubernetes security targeted by perfect storm of threats
As Kubernetes prepares to phase out Docker upstream, attackers shift their focus to the container orchestration platform, where complexity creates its own vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2022
How to build a virtual router with VMware Workstation
Virtual networks in testing and development setups require virtual routers. In this step-by-step tutorial, use VMware and Windows tools to set up a virtual router. Continue Reading
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News
25 Apr 2022
IT pros hail Google's Istio service mesh donation to CNCF
Google's decision to donate Istio service mesh to the CNCF isn't a shocking one, but proponents of the project said it could broaden its adoption in a competitive market. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2022
How to choose the best CPU for virtualization
Selecting the right CPU for virtual infrastructures depends on many factors, including feature sets and hardware specs. Proper configuration of processor resources is also crucial. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2022
Key Amazon EKS monitoring best practices
Learn how to monitor Amazon EKS resources through tools such as CloudWatch and Prometheus, as well as worker node and infrastructure monitoring tips to maintain application efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
08 Apr 2022
How to secure Kubernetes clusters in 7 steps
Kubernetes security is critical for an enterprise's welfare. To protect Kubernetes clusters, create a plan to implement security protocols and control access. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2022
Open Virtualization Format (OVF)
The Open Virtualization Format (OVF) is an open source standard for packaging and distributing software applications and services for virtual machines (VMs). Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2022
Compare KubeVirt vs. Virtlet for container, VM management
KubeVirt and Virtlet unite VM and container management into one stack, but KubeVirt has more flexibility to tune VMs, whereas Virtlet boasts better integration with Kubernetes. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2022
Follow this 10-point virtualization security checklist
Failover clustering, encryption and prompt patching practices can help admins shore up their VMs in the face of online security threats from sources such as malware and bad actors. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2022
Avoid VM latency issues with VMware NUMA Observer
NUMA Observer from VMware Labs helps admins identify VMs that have overlapping NUMA nodes and storage problems. Learn how the setup process can identify VM issues. Continue Reading
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News
31 Mar 2022
Docker drops Desktop roadmap hints after cash infusion
The roadmap for Docker Desktop will include security updates and serverless support, as industry watchers speculate about potential acquisition interest from Atlassian. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2022
The role of sidecars in microservices architecture
Sidecars can do a lot for microservices when it comes to communication with distributed application components, though they also present some precarious management challenges. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2022
Is Kubernetes free as open source software?
Kubernetes is available open source, but also from IT vendors. A complex tool, it enables container orchestration at scale. Which version will pay off for enterprise adopters? Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Mar 2022
Need a replacement? Try these 5 Docker alternatives
Docker might be the authoritative choice for containers, but with the way the market is changing, it might not always be. Here are five other options that have merit. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2022
DevOps teams seek service mesh help from network platform
Service mesh users including T-Mobile and Constant Contact have deployed Solo.io's application networking platform to cope with overwhelming operational complexity. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2022
Red Hat cloud leader defects to service mesh upstart
Brian Gracely, now vice president of product strategy at Solo.io after six years at Red Hat, sees service mesh platforms beginning to edge Kubernetes out of the industry spotlight. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Mar 2022
Virtualization trends in 2022 highlight flexibility, app delivery
Organizations require virtualization systems that not only support different types of applications but also simplify IT administration, forcing vendors to adapt accordingly. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2022
Virtual network load balancing tools and tips
There are many virtual load balancer options for IT teams to choose from, and each offers something a little different. Compare four of these tools here. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2022
Deploy microservices with serverless functions
Microservices enable IT teams to create flexible, uniform systems -- but what happens when IT teams use serverless functions for microservices? Discover the benefits and drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Feb 2022
virtual appliance
Considered a software equivalent of a hardware device, a virtual appliance (VA) is a preconfigured software solution. Continue Reading
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News
15 Feb 2022
F5 distributed cloud security services strike a trendy chord
As talk of multi-cloud management gives way to distributed cloud, which also ties in edge computing, F5 bundles application security services to expand its appeal to enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
09 Feb 2022
How to install and deploy Quay on Red Hat OpenShift
Quay enables Red Hat OpenShift users to store and manage container images -- with added advantages. Follow this tutorial to install and deploy the container registry. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2022
CNCF hosts WebAssembly server-side projects
Once strictly a web browser utility, WebAssembly may soon be coming to a server near you and bringing with it a new level of computing abstraction to contend with. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2022
WebAssembly tech infiltrates the cloud via edge computing
WebAssembly's first beachhead in its mission to break out beyond the web browser has been in edge computing, where it offers efficient support for bespoke serverless workloads. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
Choose the best Docker image for the job at hand
There are a lot of varied options for container images. And although that freedom of choice breeds flexibility, it can also make it easy to choose the wrong one. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2022
How to reduce the cost of Kubernetes
Is your Kubernetes bill getting out of hand? Luckily, there are ways to reduce costs. Take these five steps to lower costs without losing functionality. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jan 2022
VMware Tanzu GA gives Cloud Foundry pros a Kubernetes leg up
VMware Tanzu Cloud Foundry users plan to move forward with the TAP Kubernetes platform, but VMware will be challenged to unseat Red Hat, SUSE and other competitors. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jan 2022
virtual
In computing, the term virtual refers to a digitally replicated version of something real, whether it's a machine, a switch, memory or even reality. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jan 2022
Scalable Processor Architecture (SPARC)
Scalable Processor Architecture (SPARC) is a 32- and 64-bit microprocessor architecture developed by Sun Microsystems in 1987. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Dec 2021
Build on the Anywhere Operations trend with composability
The ability to access infrastructure remotely is crucial for IT organizations to meet business initiatives. Composable infrastructure is one way to support this model. Continue Reading
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News
21 Dec 2021
Fintech startup passes SOC 2 audits with serverless security
Undertaking SOC 2 audits in a serverless security environment came with up-front challenges, but the company's former chief security architect predicts long-term advantages. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
21 Dec 2021
How to build a Kubernetes operator
Operators unleash the full power of developing complicated offerings or abstractions on Kubernetes. And, while they have a lot of potential, there is a steep learning curve. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2021
Learn how to install MicroK8s for Kubernetes
MicroK8s enables admins to deploy and destroy Kubernetes in a flash. Follow this tutorial to learn how to install MicroK8s and combine with Multipass. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Dec 2021
How to tackle container orchestration challenges
Container orchestration brings many benefits, like improved productivity and security, but before those advantages can be realized, IT teams must overcome several hurdles. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2021
Find the right service mesh tool for Kubernetes environments
Kubernetes is an industry must-have, but still lacks in certain areas -- that's where service mesh comes in. Discover four service mesh tools to use with your Kubernetes platform. Continue Reading
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Quiz
08 Dec 2021
How well do you know container basics?
As containers continue to evolve with IT operations, it's important to have a good grasp of the basics. Test your knowledge and understanding with this container quiz. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2021
AWS Kubernetes roadmap includes Flux for GitOps
Amazon EKS will include a Flux-based GitOps add-on, while ECS Anywhere seems destined for a niche in edge computing, per roadmap plans unveiled by AWS execs this week. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2021
Google changes tune on Knative, applies to CNCF
Google's decision to submit Knative to the CNCF for incubation prompts speculation about its future: a budding industry standard or a project not worth keeping to itself? Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2021
Learn to use Kubernetes CRDs in this tutorial example
Custom resource definitions enable IT organizations to create objects Kubernetes doesn't offer by default. Learn how to use them here. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2021
How viable is open source service mesh?
The open source vs. proprietary service mesh debate has a lot of gray area, and the best fit for an org might fall into that spectrum. Here's what to consider before you decide. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2021
Why you should use a service mesh with microservices
Still on the fence about service mesh? See how it supports a microservices architecture and application deployments, along with the other benefits it brings to an organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2021
6 use cases for Docker containers -- and when to pass
From app testing to reducing infrastructure costs and beyond, Docker has many great use cases. But developers should remember that, like any technology, Docker has limitations. Continue Reading
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News
12 Nov 2021
Cisco emerging tech VP plans for API security, observability
Vijoy Pandey, head of Cisco's emerging technology and incubation group, charts a long-term roadmap for application-level networking from cloud to the edge. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2021
Compare 3 managed Kubernetes service providers
Kubernetes can be difficult for an enterprise to handle on its own. However, there are a slew of managed service options -- but which one to choose? Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2021
Your starter guide to Docker troubleshooting
Though containers bring a lot of benefits, no container engine is perfect. Get an idea of what Docker troubleshooting involves, available tools and helpful commands for analysis. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2021
What is hardware virtualization?
Hardware virtualization, which is also known as server virtualization or simply virtualization, is the abstraction of computing resources from the software that uses those resources. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2021
What is hardware-assisted virtualization?
Hardware-assisted virtualization is the use of a computer's physical components to support the software that creates and manages virtual machines (VMs). Continue Reading
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News
14 Oct 2021
DevOps platform operators hone support for GitOps
GitOps practitioners at companies such as State Farm and Intuit have begun to fill in the details of observability, security and other 'day 2' practices for the maturing paradigm. Continue Reading
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News
14 Oct 2021
Crossplane project could disrupt infrastructure as code
An emerging CNCF project extends Kubernetes orchestration to non-container resources, displacing infrastructure-as-code tools in some early-adopter environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2021
A breakdown of container runtimes for Kubernetes and Docker
For a container ecosystem to work, it needs a container runtime. Brush up on Kubernetes and Docker containers, then compare runtime options such as runC, CRI-O and containerd. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Oct 2021
virtual private server (VPS) or virtual dedicated server (VDS)
A virtual private server (VPS), also called a virtual dedicated server (VDS), is a virtual server that appears to the user as a dedicated server, but that is actually installed on a computer serving multiple websites. Continue Reading
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News
06 Oct 2021
VMware Tanzu super users mull Cloud Foundry-Kubernetes meld
Users of VMware Tanzu Application Service, formerly Pivotal Cloud Foundry, hope VMware preserves their developer experience as it shifts its focus toward Kubernetes. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Oct 2021
Boot2Docker
Boot2Docker is a minimalist Linux distribution with the sole purpose to run Docker containers. It was depreciated and is no longer recommended for use. Continue Reading
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News
05 Oct 2021
VMware Tanzu roadmap targets multi-cloud, vSphere pros
VMware shops say the Tanzu platform's integration with familiar tools is a big draw as they move toward Kubernetes, but much of that integration is still in progress. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2021
Kubernetes cost management approaches to save money
Kubernetes and container costs continue to rise as services move off-site. Learn how to manage the costs with limited resources, autoscaling and the right cloud instances. Continue Reading
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News
29 Sep 2021
Kong tightens links between API gateway, service mesh
Kong adds support for Istio and Envoy integration with its API gateway to consolidate network management between traditional and cloud-native apps. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2021
Learn the basics of virtual server security software selection
There are multiple factors in choosing the right security software for VMs and virtual infrastructure. Get familiar with potential threats, features to have and market offerings. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2021
What is Amazon Elastic Container Registry (Amazon ECR)?
Amazon Elastic Container Registry (Amazon ECR) is an Amazon Web Service (AWS) product that stores, manages and deploys Docker images, which are managed clusters of Amazon EC2 instances. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Sep 2021
Boost Docker API security to protect ports
Unguarded Docker APIs can let in unwanted visitors and expose data to hackers. To shield your Docker environment, follow these best practices -- and avoid common pitfalls. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2021
Get familiar with storage virtualization software options
Virtual storage offerings are not one size fits all. Factors in virtualized storage software selection include storage type, current infrastructure and management tools. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Sep 2021
What to know for your virtualized storage selection process
Not all storage virtualization is created equal. Get familiar with the types, methods and implementation considerations before you buy hardware or software for your organization. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Sep 2021
Follow 6 key steps to deploy microservices in production
To succeed with microservices, IT organizations need to rethink the way they design and deploy applications -- and not all the necessary changes are technical ones. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Sep 2021
Why and how to use eBPF for Kubernetes scaling
Scaling Kubernetes clusters has always been a challenge -- but eBPF makes the process smoother with service-specific monitors and a lack of special instrumentation. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2021
Working with Docker Compose? Use environmental variables
Docker Compose streamlines container application deployments. Dig into the tool and see how the use of environment variables can hone the process further. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Sep 2021
When to use Kubernetes operators vs. Helm charts
Not sure whether to use Helm charts or Kubernetes operators? Walk through examples to learn when to use each one, looking at factors like application complexity and team maturity. Continue Reading
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News
01 Sep 2021
VMware Tanzu Application Platform reflects PaaS shifts
VMware plans a developer on-ramp to Kubernetes with Tanzu Application Platform, a more flexible take on PaaS than Cloud Foundry that could heighten competition with OpenShift. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2021
Set up a rock-solid virtualized storage management strategy
An effective deployment and oversight strategy is essential to get the most out of your virtual storage. Find out what software, hardware and tools can ensure it all runs smoothly. Continue Reading
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News
24 Aug 2021
Solo.io folds API gateway in with Istio service mesh
Solo.io is among the service mesh vendors aligning the emerging tech with existing network management as enterprise adoption expands. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Aug 2021
Compare API keys vs. tokens for access management
Not a fan of security breach alerts? Learn more about the different types of access management tokens and how they can elevate application and data security. Continue Reading
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News
19 Aug 2021
KEDA project adds finesse to Kubernetes autoscaling
As enterprise Kubernetes deployments expand in production, an incubating CNCF project injects nuance into the way the container platform responds to applications' resource needs. Continue Reading
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News
18 Aug 2021
CNCF policy-as-code project bridges Kubernetes security gaps
Kyverno, a CNCF policy-as-code sandbox project, can help platform engineers navigate the transition toward the successor to Kubernetes pod security policies. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Aug 2021
Why use containers vs. VMs in a modern enterprise?
Thinking about making the switch from VMs to containers? Compare container features against VMs to determine whether you should change where you host your applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Aug 2021
An introduction to eBPF and where it shines
With eBPF, developers can customize Linux OS software without changing the kernel. Discover the utility's basics and how it can be used for networking, monitoring and security. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
06 Aug 2021
How to use Azure Arc-enabled Kubernetes, step by step
As the use of the cloud expands and becomes more complex, Azure Arc offers a way to manage resources. Learn how to set it up for Kubernetes with this tutorial. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2021
How to keep Docker secrets secret
Secrets greatly increase an environment's security but can take some trial and error to implement correctly. Learn the basics, and then follow this tutorial to create a secret. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2021
Oracle WebLogic users get a bridge to Kubernetes deployment
Java developers in Oracle shops can use the new Verrazzano container platform to deploy apps to Kubernetes without a ground-up rewrite. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jul 2021
Linkerd service mesh plans expansion post-graduation
Linkerd joins the likes of Kubernetes, Prometheus and Envoy as a graduated project within CNCF and lays out a fresh roadmap for the coming year. Continue Reading
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News
27 Jul 2021
Cloud Foundry Kubernetes integration hits snags
Cloud Foundry platform users want an on-ramp to Kubernetes, but the community is still sorting through how to create a unified developer experience. Continue Reading