Best Kubernetes Courses & Certifications to Master DevOps

Key Features

• The average pay for developers is $156,773/year.
• Mastering Kubernetes enables efficient management of containerized applications.
• Courses provide certifications recognized by top tech firms worldwide.
• Hands-on labs, real-world projects, and interactive exercises solidify skills.

These courses contain the knowledge and skills required to keep pace in the everchanging tech world and prepare you for the cloud computing and containerization path. Whatever your career progression goals, learning Kubernetes can drive you forward at a pace that can keep pace with industry evolution.

What Are Kubernetes Courses?

Courses in Kubernetes teach how to deploy, administer, and scale containerized applications well. These courses range from basics like architecture, clusters, and orchestration in the Kubernetes world to advanced concepts such as security and monitoring. Suitable for IT professionals, developers, and DevOps engineers, these courses offer the theoretical background to become Kubernetes proficient and the practical know-how to become a Kubernetes expert.

Best Kubernetes Courses Online (Free & Paid) Comparison Table

Kubernetes Certification Courses: Get CKA & CKAD Certified

1. Kubernetes for the Absolute Beginners – Hands-on – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $24.99
  • Duration: 5.5 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Beginner
  • Instructor: KodeKloud Training and Mumshad Mannambeth
  • Key Topics:
    1. Kubernetes fundamentals and architecture
    2. Building and managing YAML configuration files
    3. Deploying applications to the Google Cloud Platform
    4. Setting up Replica Sets, Deployments, and Services
    5. Creating a local Kubernetes Cluster
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic system administration skills
    2. Access to a laptop or computer for setup
  • Scope:
    1. For Beginners: Perfect for those new to container orchestration.
    2. Foundational Learning: Lays the groundwork for advanced Kubernetes concepts.
    3. Practical Application: Offers hands-on exercises for better retention.
  • Cons:
    1. It is not suitable for those with no prior technical background.
    2. Focuses heavily on beginners, with limited intermediate concepts.

This course is an excellent starting point for developers and admins seeking to gain foundational Kubernetes knowledge. It combines theory with practical exercises, ensuring a robust learning experience.

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2. Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) with Practice Tests – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $24.99
  • Duration: 18 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Instructor: KodeKloud Training and Mumshad Mannambeth
  • Key Topics:
    1. Administering and designing Kubernetes clusters
    2. Troubleshooting and securing clusters
    3. Configuring networking and storage solutions
    4. End-to-end testing of Kubernetes setups
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Familiarity with Docker basics
    2. Understanding of YAML configurations
  • Scope:
    1. Certification Prep: Tailored for CKA aspirants.
    2. Advanced Skills: Focuses on cluster management and security.
    3. Community Support: Access to a Slack group for discussions and feedback.
  • Cons:
    1. Limited responsiveness from the instructor during Q&A sessions.
    2. Requires prior Docker experience, which might not suit beginners.

Designed for IT professionals aiming to clear the CKA certification, this course offers in-depth knowledge and hands-on labs to build proficiency in Kubernetes administration.

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3. Kubernetes Certified Application Developer (CKAD) with Tests – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $22.99
  • Duration: 12 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Instructor: KodeKloud Training, Mumshad Mannambeth and Vijin Palazhi
  • Key Topics:
    1. Cloud-first application development
    2. Securing clusters with policies and secrets
    3. Scheduling, configuring, and troubleshooting apps
    4. Persistent storage and volume configurations
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic programming knowledge (Python preferred)
    2. Familiarity with Linux systems
    3. Optional: Experience with Kubernetes fundamentals
  • Scope:
    1. Developer-Oriented: Ideal for developers creating cloud-native apps.
    2. Exam Prep: Helps prepare for CKAD certification.
    3. Comprehensive Coverage: Includes quizzes, labs, and real-world exercises.
  • Cons:
    1. Some labs might face technical issues.
    2. Requires knowledge of system administration and coding.

This course caters to app developers and IT professionals looking to design, deploy, and troubleshoot applications in Kubernetes environments.

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4. Getting Started with Google Kubernetes Engine – Offered by Google Cloud – [Coursera]

• • Cost: $39/month (Coursera subscription)
  • Duration: 11 hours to complete
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Instructor: Google Cloud Training
  • Key Topics:
    1. Kubernetes architecture and GKE deployment
    2. Cloud Build and Container Registry usage
    3. Managing Kubernetes objects and scaling apps
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Familiarity with Google Cloud basics
    2. Understanding of Docker and Containerization
  • Scope:
    1. GCP-Focused: Best for those working in Google Cloud environments.
    2. Flexible Learning: Self-paced with adjustable deadlines.
    3. Practical Labs: Hands-on experience with GKE tools and features.
  • Cons:
    1. Limited coverage of non-Google Cloud Kubernetes setups.
    2. Theoretical explanations could be better organized.

This course is a must for professionals using the Google Cloud Platform, offering hands-on labs and in-depth insights into GKE functionalities.

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5. Fundamentals of Kubernetes Deployment – Offered by Learn Quest – [Coursera]

• • Cost: $39/month (Coursera subscription)
  • Duration: 8 hours to complete
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Instructor: Jim Sullivan (Learn Quest)
  • Key Topics:
    1. Kubernetes architecture and installation
    2. Cluster creation and deployment
    3. Scaling applications and managing rollbacks
    4. Nodes, pods, and persistent volumes
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Familiarity with system administration concepts
    2. Basic knowledge of containerization tools (e.g., Docker)
  • Scope:
    1. Practical Focus: Teaches deployment and scaling techniques.
    2. System Admins: Suitable for IT professionals managing clusters.
    3. Versatile Use: Covers both development and maintenance.
  • Cons:
    1. Limited practical exercises compared to theoretical content.
    2. Not suited for beginners with no prior Kubernetes knowledge.

This course emphasizes the core aspects of deploying and managing Kubernetes clusters, making it ideal for system admins and developers looking to deepen their knowledge.

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6. Learn DevOps: The Complete Kubernetes Course – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $19.99
  • Duration: 14 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Instructor: Edward Viaene
  • Key Topics:
    1. Installing and configuring Kubernetes locally and on the cloud
    2. Stateful and stateless app management
    3. Helm charts, Istio service mesh, and Skaffold integration
    4. CI/CD pipelines and Kubernetes cluster scaling
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic understanding of DevOps and cloud platforms
    2. Familiarity with Linux systems is beneficial
  • Scope:
    1. DevOps-Oriented: Perfect for professionals seeking advanced skills.
    2. Comprehensive: Covers Kubernetes’ ecosystem tools like Helm and Istio.
    3. Cloud Integration: Focus on cloud-based Kubernetes deployment.
  • Cons:
    1. Some exercises may be outdated.
    2. Advanced topics can overwhelm intermediate learners.

This course provides a holistic approach to Kubernetes, blending fundamental concepts with advanced tools and real-world projects.

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7. Docker and Kubernetes: The Complete Guide – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $18.99
  • Duration: 21.5 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Instructor: Stephen Grider
  • Key Topics:
    1. Docker CLI for debugging and inspecting containers
    2. CI/CD pipeline creation using Travis CI and AWS
    3. Deploying complex applications on Kubernetes
    4. Automated code deployment via GitHub
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic understanding of terminal commands
    2. Credit card for deploying projects on AWS/Google Cloud
  • Scope:
    1. All-in-One: Combines Docker and Kubernetes training.
    2. Hands-On Learning: Practical deployment exercises included.
    3. Beginner-Friendly: Starts from scratch for newcomers.
  • Cons:
    1. Lengthy course, some parts could be more concise.
    2. Requires additional costs for cloud-based exercises.

This course is a comprehensive guide for beginners and intermediate learners looking to master Docker and Kubernetes with real-world application deployment.

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8. Kubernetes Hands-On – Deploy Microservices to the AWS Cloud – [Udemy]

• • Cost: $17.99
  • Duration: 29.5 hours of on-demand video
  • Level: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Instructor: Prageeth Warnak, Virtual Pair Programmers, and Richard Chesterwood
  • Key Topics:
    1. Deploying containers and scaling apps in Kubernetes
    2. Monitoring clusters with Prometheus and Grafana
    3. Using ElasticSearch and Kibana for system-wide logs
    4. Configuring Ingress control and Helm charts
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic Docker and Kubernetes knowledge
    2. Familiarity with AWS and terminal operations
    3. Computer with at least 8GB RAM for practical exercises
  • Scope:
    1. AWS-Focused: Tailored for professionals deploying Kubernetes in AWS.
    2. Advanced Concepts: Covers RBAC, StatefulSets, and continuous deployment.
    3. Practical Insights: Emphasizes real-world production setups.
  • Cons:
    1. Some sections are rushed, making it hard for beginners.
    2. Requires prior AWS experience for later modules.

An in-depth course for IT professionals aiming to deploy and manage Kubernetes microservices on AWS effectively.

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9. Introduction to Kubernetes – Offered by The Linux Foundation – [edX]

• • Cost: Free (Certificate: $189)
  • Duration: 14 weeks (2–3 hours per week)
  • Level: Beginner
  • Instructor: Chris Pokorni
  • Key Topics:
    1. Kubernetes architecture and basic concepts
    2. Container orchestration and cluster management
    3. ConfigMaps, Secrets, and Ingress usage
    4. Stand-alone and multi-tier app deployments
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Basic Linux command-line knowledge
    2. Familiarity with container technology (e.g., Docker)
  • Scope:
    1. Beginner-Friendly: Great for individuals new to Kubernetes.
    2. Thorough Basics: Covers architecture and foundational tools.
    3. Flexible Pace: Self-paced learning for working professionals.
  • Cons:
    1. Limited interactivity and hands-on exercises.
    2. Additional cost for certification and graded assignments.

This course provides an excellent introduction to Kubernetes, focusing on foundational concepts and practical applications for container orchestration.

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10. Kubernetes: Native Tools (2018) – [LinkedIn Learning]

• • Cost: $29.99/month or $239.88/year
  • Duration: 46 minutes
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Instructor: Karthik Gaekwad
  • Key Topics:
    1. Deployments, services, and cron jobs in Kubernetes
    2. Advanced Kubernetes concepts like secrets management
    3. Best practices for using native Kubernetes tools
  • Prerequisites:
    1. Familiarity with Kubernetes basics
    2. Intermediate-level IT knowledge
  • Scope:
    1. Quick Overview: Best for professionals seeking a refresher.
    2. Concise Learning: Focuses on core native tools and best practices.
    3. Practical Knowledge: Includes examples for real-world applications.
  • Cons:
    1. Very brief, lacking detailed explanations of advanced topics.
    2. Not ideal for absolute beginners or advanced learners seeking depth.

A short yet insightful course on Kubernetes’ native tools, perfect for IT professionals seeking a quick and focused learning experience.

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Why Learn Kubernetes? High Salaries & Career Growth

• High Demand for Kubernetes Professionals: With the move from traditional to containerized applications, Kubernetes knowledge is in high demand in the job market.
• Career Growth and Lucrative Salaries: Kubernetes practitioners can get paid up to $156,773/year, and with industry-specialized DevOps positions open, even higher compensation is possible.
• Streamlined Application Management: Mastering Kubernetes enables developers and system administrators to deploy, scale, and manage applications in various environments.
• Future-Proof Skill: Kubernetes, supported by Cloud Native Computing Foundation, is a standard way container orchestrator, which will always be important in the future.

How to Select CKA & CKAD Certified Kubernetes Courses

• Learning Outcomes: Courses were rated by conveying tangible knowledge and hands-on experiences using Kubernetes tools and concepts.
• Instructor Expertise: Only courses taught by qualified and experienced teachers with established teaching histories were shortlisted.
• Student Reviews and Ratings: Feedback from previous learners played a significant role in determining the value and effectiveness of each course.
• Cost vs. Value: While prioritizing quality, courses offering certifications, comprehensive resources, and solid ROI were preferred.

Industry Applications of Kubernetes

• Cloud Computing: A containerized application deployment to AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure platforms has been made smooth.
• DevOps Automation: Automates the repetitive job of scaling, monitoring, and resource management, thus increasing productivity and efficiency.
• Microservices Architecture: Enables the creation and orchestration of microservices to remain modular and scalable.
• Data Processing: Used for efficiently processing large datasets using distributed systems, frequently alongside big data tools.
• IoT Solutions: Administrates and scales IoT applications by using Kubernetes orchestration.

FAQs About Kubernetes Training

• Who Should Enroll in Kubernetes Courses?
  Developers, DevOps engineers, system administrators, and IT professionals.
• Are Kubernetes Courses Suitable for Beginners?
  Yes, many courses cover the basics of containerization and Kubernetes architecture.
• Do These Courses Offer Certifications?
  Most offer certifications like CKA and CKAD to enhance your credentials.
• What Skills Will I Gain from a Kubernetes Course?
  Container orchestration, cluster management, app deployment, and environment remediation.
• Are There Free Kubernetes Courses Available?
  Yes, platforms like edX and Coursera offer free courses, though certification may incur a fee.
• How Long Does It Take to Complete a Kubernetes Course?
  From hours to weeks, depending on course depth and level.
• Is Prior Experience Required to Learn Kubernetes?
  Basic knowledge of Docker, Linux, or programming is helpful but not essential for beginners.

Start Your Kubernetes Learning Journey Today!

Enrolling in Kubernetes courses provides learners with industry-appropriate skills, preparing them for career progression and to excel in modern application infrastructure management. No matter whether you are a beginner or someone already with years of professional experience driving forces, Kubernetes proficiency gives you a competitive edge in the constantly changing tech world. Take the first step and unleash the power of Kubernetes to forge your destiny!