Kubernetes Security: Protecting Your Cluster

# Kubernetes Security: Protecting Your Cluster

Security is paramount when running production workloads on Kubernetes. This guide covers essential security practices to protect your cluster and applications.

## Security Fundamentals

### 1. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

RBAC is crucial for controlling who can access what in your cluster:

```yaml
apiVersion: rbac.authorization.k8s.io/v1
kind: Role
metadata:
namespace: default
name: pod-reader
rules:
- apiGroups: [""]
resources: ["pods"]
verbs: ["get", "watch", "list"]
```

### 2. Network Policies

Control traffic flow between pods:

```yaml
apiVersion: networking.k8s.io/v1
kind: NetworkPolicy
metadata:
name: deny-all
spec:
podSelector: {}
policyTypes:
- Ingress
- Egress
```

### 3. Container Security

- Use minimal base images
- Scan images for vulnerabilities
- Run containers as non-root users
- Use security contexts

## Best Practices

1. **Keep Kubernetes Updated**: Regularly update your cluster
2. **Use Secrets Management**: Never hardcode sensitive data
3. **Monitor and Audit**: Enable audit logging
4. **Implement Pod Security Standards**: Use Pod Security Policies or Pod Security Standards

## Conclusion

Kubernetes security requires a multi-layered approach. Implement these practices to build a secure foundation for your applications.