Offered on the edX.org learning platform, the new online course explores use cases and applications of Kubernetes at the edge
The Linux Foundation, the nonprofit organization enabling mass innovation through open source, and Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), which builds sustainable ecosystems for cloud native software, at KubeCon + CloudNativeCon Europe (Virtual) announced the availability of a new online training course on edX.org, the online learning platform founded by Harvard and MIT. The course, Introduction to Kubernetes on Edge with K3s (LFS156x), takes a deep dive into the use cases and applications of Kubernetes at the edge using examples, labs, and a technical overview of the K3s project and the cloud native edge ecosystem.
In this 15 hour course, participants will learn the use cases for running compute in edge locations and about various supporting projects and foundations such as LF Edge and CNCF. The course covers how to deploy applications to the edge with open source tools such as K3s and k3sup, and how those tools can be applied to low-power hardware such as the Raspberry Pi. Students will learn the challenges associated with edge compute, such as partial availability and the need for remote access. Through practical examples, students will gain experience of deploying applications to Kubernetes and get hands-on with object storage, MQTT, and OpenFaaS. It also introduces the fleet management and GitOps models of deployment, and helps the student understand messaging, and how to interface with sensors and real hardware.
LFS156x is designed primarily for developers who need to learn about the growing impact the cloud native movement is having on modernizing edge deployments, though others working with Kubernetes or edge computing will find the content of use.
The course was developed by Alex Ellis, a CNCF Ambassador and the Founder of OpenFaaS and inlets. Ellis is a respected expert on serverless and cloud native computing. He founded OpenFaaS, one of the most popular open-source serverless projects, where he has built the community via writing, speaking, and extensive personal engagement. As a consultant and CNCF Ambassador, he helps companies around the world navigate the cloud native landscape and build great developer experiences. Ellis also authored the existing Introduction to Serverless on Kubernetes (LFS157x) course.
“K3s fills a very specific need and helps lower the barrier to entry for development and operation teams,” said Alex Ellis, Founder of Inlets and OpenFaaS, CNCF Ambassador. “I’ve seen the project grow from Darren’s initial post on Hacker News, to a GA, production-ready Kubernetes distribution housed within CNCF. I’m excited to share this course with the community and customers alike, and am looking forward to seeing increased use of Kubernetes at the edge.”
Introduction to Kubernetes on Edge with K3s is available to begin immediately. Auditing the course through edX is free for ten weeks, or participants can opt for a paid verified certificate of completion, which provides access to the course for a full year and additional assessments and content to deepen the learning experience.
