Inlets Operator
The Inlets Operator is a powerful tool designed to bring public IP addresses to local Kubernetes clusters by automating the creation of secure tunnels. Developed by OpenFaaS Ltd, it simplifies exposing services from private or local Kubernetes environments to the internet through the use of virtual machines (VMs) and inlets Pro tunnel servers.
Key Features
- Automated Tunnel Management: Utilizes a Custom Resource Definition (CRD) named
Tunnelto manage the lifecycle of tunnels, integrating seamlessly with Kubernetes services of typeLoadBalancer. - Multi-Cloud Support: Compatible with major cloud providers like DigitalOcean, AWS EC2, Google Compute Engine (GCE), Hetzner, Azure, and Linode, allowing flexibility in choosing the infrastructure for tunnel servers.
- Easy Installation: Can be installed using tools like
arkadefor simplicity orHelmfor advanced users, catering to different levels of technical expertise. - Public IP Assignment: Automatically assigns public IPs to Kubernetes services, making them accessible over the internet without manual configuration.
- Integration with Existing LoadBalancers: Supports coexistence with other LoadBalancer solutions like MetalLB or kube-vip through service annotations.
Use Cases
- Development and Testing: Ideal for developers who need to expose local Kubernetes services for testing webhooks, APIs, or applications without a public infrastructure.
- Hybrid Cloud Environments: Useful for organizations managing hybrid setups, allowing secure access to on-premises Kubernetes clusters from cloud-based clients.
- Cost-Effective Exposure: Provides a cost-effective solution for small-scale projects or startups needing public access to services without investing in dedicated public infrastructure.
Target Users
The Inlets Operator targets Kubernetes administrators, DevOps engineers, and developers working with local or private clusters who require secure, public-facing access to their services.
Unique Selling Points
Unlike traditional VPNs or manual port forwarding, Inlets Operator automates the entire process within the Kubernetes ecosystem, reducing setup time and potential errors. Its multi-cloud compatibility and integration with Kubernetes-native constructs like CRDs make it a standout solution for modern cloud-native workflows.
