K3s packs the essential features of Kubernetes into a streamlined distribution that maintains compatibility while focusing on simplicity and efficiency. It is optimized for arm64 and x86_64 architectures, facilitating a smooth Kubernetes experience.
K3s reduces the Kubernetes operational overhead with a simplified and lightweight storage backend utilizing SQLite3 as the default storage mechanism.
Shipped as a single binary, K3s simplifies the deployment process and minimizes the system dependencies required for a Kubernetes cluster.
K3s includes a built-in certificate authority that automatically generates and rotates all the necessary certificates to ensure secure cluster communication.
While the default container runtime is containerd, K3s also supports Docker, giving users flexibility in how they deploy and manage containerized applications.
K3s makes application deployment easier with a built-in Helm controller, enabling users to deploy Helm charts directly without the need for setting up Helm separately.
K3s offers a straightforward installation process, automatic manifest and content garbage collection, as well as simplified network setup to streamline cluster operation.