Step 9: Kubernetes Tools (Optional)
Time: 5 minutes
Purpose: Install Kubernetes tools for container orchestration and cluster management
This step is optional unless you're working with containerized applications or need to deploy to Kubernetes clusters.
Overview
Kubernetes is a powerful platform for managing containerized applications, but working with its vast ecosystem can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guide introduces essential tools like kubectl, k9s, and kubectx, which simplify interacting with Kubernetes clusters and streamline day-to-day operations. Whether you're deploying applications, managing resources, or switching contexts, these tools empower developers and operators to work efficiently and effectively.
Prerequisite
Before you are able to use the below tools, you would need to log into the appropriate cloud account. Please ensure you have completed Step 7: Platform CLI and read through the Automatic SSO Configuration section.
Essential Kubernetes Tools
Install the following tools using their official documentation for the most current versions:
| Tool | Official Documentation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| kubectl | kubernetes.io/docs/tasks/tools | Kubernetes command-line interface |
| k9s | k9scli.io/topics/install | Terminal-based Kubernetes UI |
| kubectx | github.com/ahmetb/kubectx | Context switching utility |
Quick Install Commands
# macOS (Homebrew)
brew install kubectl k9s kubectx
# Windows (Chocolatey - PowerShell 7 as Administrator)
choco install kubernetes-cli k9s kubectx -y
# Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)
sudo snap install kubectl k9s kubectx --classic
# Alternative: sudo apt install kubectl kubectx && snap install k9s
Direct Downloads
kubectl: All platforms at kubernetes.io/docs/tasks/tools
k9s: All platforms at GitHub Releases
kubectx: All platforms at GitHub Releases
kubectx Usage
Show all k8s contexts:
kubectx
Switch k8s context:
kubectx {context_name}
Verification
# Check kubectl installation
kubectl version --client
# Check k9s installation
k9s version
# Check kubectx installation
kubectx --help
# List available contexts (if any configured)
kubectx
Configuration
After installing the tools, you'll need to configure access to your company's Kubernetes clusters. This is typically done through the Platform CLI:
# Use p6m to configure SSO and Kubernetes access
p6m sso
# This will configure both AWS and Azure access
# and update your ~/.kube/config with cluster entries
Next Step
Step 10: IDE Setup (Final Step)