Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the purpose of this new Linux distribution?

A: The purpose of SimpleK8s is to provide a hassle-free Linux operating system specifically designed for production-grade Kubernetes clusters. It ensures seamless rolling upgrades without any unpleasant surprises or unnecessary software.

Q: What are the system requirements for installing and running this Linux distribution?

A: The system requirements for different scenarios are as follows:

  • Bare minimum to boot:
    • 1 CPU
    • 40Mb Storage
    • 128Mb RAM.
  • Minimum recommended:
    • 1 CPU
    • 512Mb storage
    • 128Mb RAM
  • Kubernetes (v1.27) Control-Plane:
    • 2 CPUs
    • 4Gb storage
    • 3Gb RAM
  • Kubernetes (1.27) Worker:
    • 1 CPU
    • 1Gb storage
    • 1Gb RAM

Q: Is this Linux distribution compatible with my hardware and peripherals?

A: SimpleK8s is designed to run a lean Kubernetes cluster, so it does not include out-of-scope kernel drivers and firmware, such as sound and HID systems. However, you can compile your own flavor or use extensions to include additional functionality.

Q: What desktop environments or window managers does this Linux distribution support?

A: SimpleK8s does not include any desktop environments. You can use the TTY console or access the web UI at https://node-ip:5443.

Q. Can I dual-boot this Linux distribution with another operating system?

A: Yes, you can dual-boot SimpleK8s with another operating system. SimpleK8s is distributed as one file that can be booted using any BIOS or UEFI boot manager. We distribute a raw storage image too that includes the SimpleK8s kernel image, Syslinux as boot manager (BIOS and UEFI), and a Microsoft-signed Preloader for secure boot.

Q: What package manager does this Linux distribution use?

A: SimpleK8s does not include a package manager. However, you can run any container of your choice. SimpleK8s utilizes Containerd and Nerdctl as a Docker replacement (instead of execute the command docker, use nerdctl). You can also run your preferred distribution as a container inside SimpleK8s. For example, the script /usr/local/bin/toolbox launches a privileged Linux Alpine with the host filesystem / mounted at /host.

Q: Are there any unique features or applications included in this Linux distribution?

A: Yes, SimpleK8s includes the following unique applications:

  • simplek8s-wizard: An optional web UI running at :5443 that assists you in the installation and setup of your Kubernetes cluster. You can utilize kubeadm instead. It can be disabled at any time using the command systemctl disable --now simplek8s-wizard
  • simplek8s-update: A program that checks and upgrades the SimpleK8s kernel image.

Q: How often are updates and security patches released for this Linux distribution?

A: SimpleK8s follows a rolling-release upgrade approach. Whenever a program (such as Systemd, Containerd, Kubernetes, etc.) is updated, an automated build system generates a new SimpleK8s kernel image. This new version is initially released as a rolling update for the simplek8s-update program. Once we receive sufficient successful reports indicating that the new release correctly launches a fully functional Kubernetes cluster (single and multi-node, control-plane, and worker roles), the release is promoted as stable. These procedures are replicated for each supported platform, including x86-64 and rpi4.

Q: Is there an active and helpful community around this Linux distribution for support and troubleshooting?

A: Currently, there is no official community established. However, you can reach us at community@simplek8s.org for assistance. We are planning to introduce new communication channels in the future to enhance support and engagement.

Q: Are there any known issues or limitations with this Linux distribution that I should be aware of?

A: SimpleK8s operate using an /usr read-only, and a / memory-backed storage. To ensure proper functionality, certain directories are bind-mounted at /var/${DIRECTORY}, including /etc, /home, /mnt, /usr/local, /usr/libexec, /root, and /opt. It is essential to mount a persistent storage at /var to maintain data integrity and preserve configurations. Please keep this in mind while working with SimpleK8s.