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Kubernetes Operators: The Pattern

Building domain-specific controllers that encode operational knowledge into Kubernetes using the Operator pattern.

🎯Key Takeaways
Operator = CRD + Controller (reconciliation loop)
Manages Day 2 operations: scaling, upgrades, backups, failover
OperatorHub.io: 300+ community operators for common databases

Kubernetes Operators: The Pattern

Building domain-specific controllers that encode operational knowledge into Kubernetes using the Operator pattern.

~1 min read
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What you'll learn
  • Operator = CRD + Controller (reconciliation loop)
  • Manages Day 2 operations: scaling, upgrades, backups, failover
  • OperatorHub.io: 300+ community operators for common databases

What is an Operator?

An Operator is a Kubernetes controller that manages a stateful application. It uses Custom Resource Definitions (CRDs) to define desired state and a reconciliation loop to drive actual state toward desired. The etcd operator, Prometheus operator, and database operators automate complex Day 2 operations.

Key takeaways

  • Operator = CRD + Controller (reconciliation loop)
  • Manages Day 2 operations: scaling, upgrades, backups, failover
  • OperatorHub.io: 300+ community operators for common databases

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