Kubeless enables the deployment of serverless functions on Kubernetes, abstracting away infrastructure management. It utilizes Custom Resource Definitions (CRDs) to treat functions as Kubernetes resources, triggering an in-cluster controller. This controller then launches runtimes to execute the function code, making it accessible via HTTP or PubSub. Kubeless provides a lightweight and flexible alternative to traditional serverless platforms.
Kubeless differentiates itself by employing CRDs for function definition, enabling seamless integration with Kubernetes' existing ecosystem. Its in-cluster controller architecture ensures dynamic scaling and resource management. The framework supports multiple runtimes and provides UI and plugin tools for easier development and deployment, promoting extensibility and developer convenience.
- Function Deployment: Define and deploy serverless functions using Kubernetes custom resources.
- Runtime Support: Supports various runtimes including Go, Python, NodeJS, and custom runtimes.
- API Routing: Provides built-in API routing and management for deployed functions.
- Scaling & Monitoring: Automatically scales functions based on demand and offers monitoring capabilities.
- UI & Plugin Tools: Offers a UI for local and in-cluster management, as well as a Serverless Framework plugin for streamlined development.
- Kubernetes Integration: Fully leverages Kubernetes for resource management, auto-scaling and deployment.
- Community Support: Active community on Slack and GitHub for assistance and contributions.
Kubeless is currently archived and no longer actively maintained by VMware. While the project has a history of usage and a community presence, ongoing development and issue resolution are limited. Existing documentation and tools remain available, but new contributions and features are unlikely. The project's open-source nature allows for community-driven maintenance but requires dedicated individuals to take ownership.
Kubeless benefits developers seeking a Kubernetes-native serverless solution. It simplifies deploying code without managing infrastructure, suitable for microservices and event-driven applications. Previously, it offered a valuable alternative to managed serverless platforms, providing flexibility and control within a Kubernetes environment. However, due to discontinued maintenance, new projects should carefully evaluate available alternatives.