Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS)
Deploy and scale containers on managed Kubernetes
Overview
Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) simplifies deploying a managed Kubernetes cluster in Azure by offloading the operational overhead to Azure. As a hosted Kubernetes service, Azure handles critical tasks like health monitoring and maintenance. AKS is ideal for deploying and managing containerized applications that require high availability, scalability, and portability.
✨ Key Features
- Free managed Kubernetes control plane
- Integrated CI/CD experience with GitHub Actions and Azure DevOps
- Enterprise-grade security and governance with Azure Policy and Microsoft Entra ID
- Advanced networking with Azure CNI
- Virtual Nodes for serverless pod scaling
- Support for Windows Server containers
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Strong integration with Azure developer tools (Azure DevOps, VS Code, GitHub).
- Unified management for on-premises and multi-cloud clusters via Azure Arc.
- Excellent support for Windows Server containers.
Unique Value: Offers a simplified, secure, and serverless Kubernetes experience on Azure, with deep integrations for developer productivity and hybrid cloud management.
🎯 Use Cases (5)
✅ Best For
- Deploying Kubernetes workloads with deep integration into the Microsoft and Azure ecosystem
- Running mixed Windows and Linux container workloads
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Organizations not using Microsoft Azure
- Teams seeking a non-Kubernetes container orchestrator
🏆 Alternatives
Provides a more integrated experience for Microsoft-centric organizations compared to EKS or GKE. Its Azure Arc integration offers a compelling story for hybrid and multi-cloud management.
💻 Platforms
🔌 Integrations
🛟 Support Options
- ✓ Email Support
- ✓ Live Chat
- ✓ Phone Support
- ✓ Dedicated Support (Azure Support plans tier)
🔒 Compliance & Security
💰 Pricing
✓ 14-day free trial
Free tier: The Kubernetes control plane is free. You only pay for the virtual machines (nodes), storage, and networking resources consumed by your cluster.
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