Before getting started using the Tanzu Kubernetes Grid (TKG) Service for vSphere, it helps to have an understanding of the Kubernetes architecture and the underlying technology that makes it possible. In this post, by starting at the lowest layer and zooming out, we will paint a picture of how all these technologies are interconnected. This is an introduction, not a deep dive, and as such is meant to be a high-level overview for anyone getting started.

There are multiple layers to look at. We’ll begin by taking a look at the Kubernetes architecture itself. We won’t go deep into the services or how storage and networking work, but instead focus on the components that comprise the Kubernetes infrastructure. Then we’ll turn to the Cluster API architecture, and look at how it automates Kubernetes deployments. Finally, we’ll look at the vSphere with Kubernetes environment to see how all these components come together.