As technology continues to advance, the demand for efficient application deployment processes is on the rise. One such process is deploying applications onto a Kubernetes cluster. Deploying an application to Kubernetes often involves several steps, including pushing the application’s Docker image to a container registry, creating a Kubernetes cluster, and finally deploying the application on the cluster.
This article will detail the steps required to deploy an application onto a Kubernetes cluster. Specifically, the article will focus on deploying the application to Microsoft Azure using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) and Azure Container Registry (ACR). We will also cover the process of converting a Docker application to run on top of a Docker image.
Assuming the role of a DevOps Engineer
Before we begin deploying the application, we first need to assume the role of a DevOps Engineer. As a DevOps Engineer, our responsibility is to ensure efficient and smooth deployment processes.
Setting up the Kubernetes cluster for deployment
Next, we need to set up the Kubernetes cluster that will host our application. We recommend using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) to create and manage the Kubernetes cluster. AKS is a fully-managed Kubernetes service that offers enterprise-grade security, scalability, and availability.
Preparing a new team member for deployment
As a DevOps Engineer, we often work with new team members who may not be familiar with the deployment process. It is our responsibility to ensure that they are prepared for the deployment process. Therefore, we will share our knowledge with the new team member and provide detailed instructions on how to deploy the application.
Deploying to the Microsoft Azure Cloud
The first step in deploying the application involves pushing the Docker image to Azure Container Registry. Azure Container Registry (ACR) is a managed Docker registry service that allows us to store and manage Docker images in a central location. To push the image to ACR, we need to have a Docker image file.
Using Azure Kubernetes Service to deploy the cluster
Once the Docker image is available in Azure Container Registry, we can use Azure Kubernetes Service to create a Kubernetes cluster. We can use the Azure portal, the Azure CLI, or Azure PowerShell to create the AKS cluster. Once the cluster is created, AKS will manage the Kubernetes control plane, leaving us to focus on deploying the application.
Converting the Docker Application
When deploying a Docker application, we may need to convert the application to run on top of a Docker image. This may be necessary if the application was not initially designed to run as a Docker image or if the existing Docker image is not compatible with the Kubernetes cluster. Converting the Docker application involves changing its configuration to meet the requirements of a Docker image.
The process of converting a Docker application
The process of converting an application to Docker involves writing a Dockerfile that describes the necessary steps to build a Docker image from the application code. The Dockerfile generally includes instructions such as copying files, running commands, and setting environment variables. Once the Dockerfile is created, it can be used to build a Docker image that is compatible with the Kubernetes cluster.
Creating an Azure Container Registry
Before we can push our Docker image to Azure Container Registry, we need to create an ACR. To do this, we can use the Azure portal, the Azure CLI, or Azure PowerShell. Once the ACR is created, we need to configure it for authentication and authorization.
Command for creating an ACR
To create an ACR, use the following command:
“az acr create –name –resource-group –sku Basic”
This command creates a new Azure Container Registry (ACR) with the name in the resource group. We recommend using the Basic SKU for most deployments as it provides a cost-effective solution for storing and managing Docker images.
Logging into Azure Container Registry
Before we can push our Docker image to Azure Container Registry, we need to authenticate with the registry using the Azure CLI. Logging in to ACR allows us to push and pull Docker images to and from the registry.
To log into ACR, use the following command:
“az acr login –name ”
In this command, replace with the name of your ACR. Once we have logged into ACR, we can push our Docker image to the registry.
Application folder navigation
Before we can deploy our application to the Kubernetes cluster, we need to navigate to the folder that contains the Docker image file. Usually, the Docker image file is located in the root folder of the application.
Creating a Kubernetes cluster in AKS
To create a new Kubernetes cluster in AKS, we can use the Azure portal or the Azure CLI. We recommend using the Azure CLI as it provides greater flexibility and control over the cluster configuration.
Configuring AKS for deployment
Once the AKS cluster is created, we need to configure it for deployment. This involves attaching the ACR registry to the cluster and configuring Kubernetes to pull the Docker image from the registry.
Attaching an ACR Registry to a Kubernetes Cluster
Attaching the ACR registry to the Kubernetes cluster allows us to pull Docker images from the registry and deploy them onto the cluster.
How to attach an ACR registry to the cluster?
To attach the ACR registry to the Kubernetes cluster, use the following command:
az aks update -n -g –attach-acr
In this command, replace with the name of your AKS cluster, with the name of your resource group, and with the name of your ACR registry.
Deploying the application to the cluster.
Deploying the application to the Kubernetes cluster enables us to manage and scale the application using Kubernetes tools and services.
Deploying an application to a Kubernetes cluster, like any complex system, requires careful planning and execution. In this article, we detail the steps required to deploy an application to Microsoft Azure using Azure Kubernetes Service and Azure Container Registry. We also cover the process of converting a Docker application to run on a Docker image and share best practices for configuring and managing Kubernetes clusters. By following these steps and best practices, you can deploy your application with confidence and efficiency.
