The Edgecase: Kubernetes in a suitcase
As Kubernetes evolves beyond cloud environments into edge computing, skeptics question its suitability due to perceived complexity. The Edgecase—our portable Kubernetes cluster in a suitcase—challenges this misconception by demonstrating a reliable, simplified deployment. Using industrial-grade hardware with Talos Linux and Omni, we've created a plug-and-play solution that proves Kubernetes isn't just viable at the edge—it's the ideal orchestration platform for decentralized applications.
The evolution of Kubernetes
Kubernetes has been evolving at a rapid pace. Initially gaining popularity as the go-to orchestration solution for public cloud environments, Kubernetes is now extending its reach into other IT landscapes, particularly in edge computing scenarios.
The Kubernetes evolution mirrors the trajectory that Linux once followed. When Linux was first introduced, it gradually became the de facto standard for operating systems. Today, we find Linux everywhere, from Android phones and Wi-Fi access points to smart televisions and washing machines. Often, we use Linux-powered devices without even realizing it.
Kubernetes is on a similar path. It started as the dominant application orchestrator in major public cloud platforms, but its adoption is now expanding far beyond that. The growing presence of Kubernetes in edge computing is undeniable, and the cloud native ecosystem is increasingly embracing and supporting this shift.
The misconception of complexity
Despite the clear trajectory, some argue that Kubernetes is too complex for edge computing, mainly due to the challenging and often unreliable nature of edge environments. However, this perceived complexity is misleading.
Kubernetes itself is not inherently complex; the real challenge lies in the vast cloud native ecosystem developed around it. In large-scale deployments, Kubernetes alone is often insufficient. Organizations require additional layers for observability, security, and application delivery. These added layers contribute to the perceived complexity, not Kubernetes itself. In fact, when was the last time the Kubernetes engine itself crashed or caused issues? Most of us would struggle to recall such an event. Kubernetes is a stable and robust technology; the broader cloud native ecosystem introduces variability.
In edge computing, however, many of the additional components found in large-scale cloud deployments are unnecessary. On its own, Kubernetes, provides the essential functionality required at the edge. This reduced reliance on the broader cloud native ecosystem makes Kubernetes much simpler in these scenarios than many assume.
Introducing the Edgecase: Kubernetes in a suitcase
To demonstrate this point, TrueFullstaq built the Edgecase, a fully operational Kubernetes cluster housed within a suitcase capable of running anywhere worldwide. We first introduced the Edgecase at our 2024 Edgecase event, and it has since proven to be an invaluable tool for showcasing the feasibility of Kubernetes in edge environments.
How it's built
The Edgecase is housed in an aluminum flight case. The lower section contains all the necessary wiring, though we won’t showcase that part, much like when a child "cleans" their room by shoving everything under the bed. The real magic happens in the upper section.
At the front, there are three server nodes. While they may resemble Raspberry Pi devices, they are actually industrial-grade OnLogic CL250 nodes. These Intel-based, fanless nodes are ideal for edge computing, as they can operate reliably in challenging environments.
Each of these nodes boots from a USB stick with Talos Linux pre-installed. This means they start as blank systems and are automatically configured with a Talos Linux image, which we generated using Omni. The nodes are networked through a dedicated switch connecting to a Netgear Nighthawk M1 4G router. This setup ensures the nodes can access the internet, allowing them to pull container images from Docker Hub and communicate as needed.
The 4G router is particularly important because it enables seamless integration with Sidero Omni. Since the Talos Linux images are built within Omni, the nodes are automatically registered. This allows us to manage Kubernetes remotely, despite the frequent changes in public IP addresses that come with mobile networks.
Additionally, a screen is attached to one of the nodes, primarily for monitoring purposes (though issues never occur). The visual interface also enhances the demonstration aspect of the Edgecase.
And the LED lights? They're purely for show - everything looks better with LED lights!
Why Talos Linux and Omni?
We chose Talos Linux and Omni from Sidero Labs over other solutions because, in our view, they are currently the best options available. Two key features set them apart:
Talos Linux is a read-only operating system built exclusively for Kubernetes. There is no SSH access or traditional management; everything is controlled through the Kubernetes API. This dramatically reduces operational overhead since managing an underlying OS is unnecessary. Talos Linux updates are handled via the Kubernetes API, making maintenance exceptionally simple.
Omni offers unparalleled simplicity. In edge computing, simplicity is critical. Many competing solutions come with unnecessary features that add complexity without real benefits. Moreover, any component running at the edge will eventually fail, so minimizing the number of components increases reliability. Another major advantage is that Talos Linux pushes information to Omni, making it highly effective in scenarios where public IP addresses frequently change, such as with our 4G router setup. This makes Omni ideal for unpredictable network environments.
For our deployment, we host Omni privately to manage incoming connections more effectively.
However, Omni is also available as a SaaS solution for those who prefer a fully managed approach.
How we use the Edgecase
We use the Edgecase daily as a demonstration tool, showcasing how effortless it has become to deploy and manage Kubernetes anywhere. The combination of Talos Linux and Omni provides us and our customers the flexibility needed for real-world edge deployments.
Operating the Edgecase is straightforward: we plug it into a power outlet, turn it on, and it just works every time. We have never encountered operational issues, even when performing hard shutdowns without properly stopping the system. This level of resilience speaks volumes about the stability of Kubernetes, Talos Linux, and Omni.
In theory, we could ship the suitcase anywhere in the world, have someone power it on, and manage everything remotely. We have already begun embedding similar solutions into industrial devices for our customers, particularly in the agricultural and high-tech sectors.
Simplicity at the edge
The Edgecase proves that Kubernetes is not inherently complex for edge computing. When deployed with the right approach, using a minimal, purpose-built stack like Talos Linux and Omni, Kubernetes becomes a powerful and simple solution for managing applications at the edge. As adoption grows, the perception of complexity will fade, revealing Kubernetes for what it truly is: the de facto standard for application orchestration, anywhere and everywhere.