More overview, less effort: container orchestration with STACKIT

A container is more than just a shell for the code. It contains everything an application needs: Configurations, dependencies, necessary libraries – and completely isolated and ready to use. This is exactly what makes it so valuable for modern cloud architectures.

However, the more services, workloads and components are operated in this way, the more difficult it becomes to maintain an overview. Containers alone do not create order. Only by orchestrating them can a controlled system be created. The STACKIT platform takes on this task with the help of Kubernetes. It automatically recognizes where capacities are needed and keeps even complex infrastructures stable – without any manual intervention. Processes such as executing updates or creating new servers run in the background.

STACKIT relies on proven open source technologies, clear structures and a high level of security. Find out how you too can maintain control of your processes at all times as your requirements grow.

Key terms relating to container orchestration

Advantages of container orchestration with STACKIT

The introduction of container orchestration changes the way processes are developed, deployed and operated. Instead of manually managing individual processes, orchestration relies on the automated interaction of complex systems as a whole. This allows you to maintain an overview even in widely ramified IT landscapes. Find out how you can bring order to dynamic systems with STACKIT.

1. Automated management and scaling of workloads

Container orchestration takes over the automated management of your applications. With STACKIT, Kubernetes clusters can be configured in such a way that new instances are automatically created when challenges increase and shut down again when demand decreases. This allows resources to be used efficiently. Even highly fluctuating loads can be reliably managed without manual intervention.

2. self-healing and high reliability

If a container fails, the system recognizes the error and automatically starts a replacement instance. This so-called self-healing ensures that your services remain available at all times without you having to intervene. This reduces downtimes and relieves the burden on companies both during operation and on standby – and in conjunction with STACKIT’s technical support.

3. efficient resource management and cost control

STACKIT optimizes the distribution of computing power, storage and network resources across your entire infrastructure. Containers are only started where there is actually free capacity. This prevents overprovisioning and idle time. This leads to better resource utilization and reduces your operating costs at the same time.

4. flexibility and portability across different environments

Whether on-premises, in the public cloud or in hybrid scenarios – with STACKIT, your applications remain portable and independent of the underlying environment. By using open standards such as Kubernetes and Docker, solutions can be managed flexibly and transferred to new system landscapes without complex adaptations.

5. fast and consistent deployment of applications

Rollouts, rollbacks and updates are fully automated with STACKIT. New features go live more quickly, while errors are detected and rectified at an early stage. The platform integrates seamlessly into existing DevOps and CI/CD workflows – the solution for teams that need to deliver quickly and continuously.

6. enterprise-grade security and governance

STACKIT offers security and governance features that go beyond traditional open source solutions. These include role-based access controls (RBAC), detailed audit logs and encryption of sensitive data. This allows companies to maintain control over their environment at all times and meet even the most demanding regulatory requirements.

7. support for complex multi-service architectures

Orchestration really comes into its own with microservices, where many individual services work independently of each other. STACKIT takes over the coordination of communication, network management and load balancing – even in systems with high demands on performance, stability and scalability.

How container orchestration with STACKIT works in detail

STACKIT provides a solid foundation for modern cloud computing and the automated control of containers. Depending on the security requirements and use case, three central components are available.

The STACKIT Kubernetes Engine makes it possible to create, manage and flexibly scale clusters in the portal itself. Updates are automated and workloads are dynamically adapted – this offers decisive advantages in terms of availability and GDPR-compliant operation.

STACKIT Confidential Kubernetes is suitable for particularly sensitive applications. The clusters run in isolated environments and all data is encrypted end-to-end – during transmission, in storage and at runtime. This means that even strictly regulated systems can be operated securely.

STACKIT Cloud Foundry focuses on speed: applications can be transferred directly from the source code into containers and launched – without any additional infrastructure effort. This shortens development cycles and speeds up deployment.

Typical deployment scenarios for STACKIT container orchestration

Public administration: no more rigid specialist procedures

In many public authorities, digital services have long since become part of everyday life – but the underlying IT is often still not very flexible. A municipal IT team therefore relies on containerized applications, orchestrated with the STACKIT Kubernetes Engine. New modules can be developed and integrated independently of each other, and updates run without interruption. The system scales automatically with heavy use. Data protection and security are part of the service design from the outset and implemented in compliance with the law.

Digital health: data protection meets innovation

When sensitive health data is processed, there can be no compromises. A provider of digital diagnostic tools uses STACKIT Confidential Kubernetes to securely operate AI functions, telemedicine and evaluation services. The container environment is completely isolated and all data is encrypted during transmission, storage and execution. Certifications such as C5 and ISO 27001 create trust – backed by competent support that keeps an eye on regulatory requirements.

E-commerce: flexibility under high pressure

In the world of online retail, every second counts. Especially on days with heavy traffic. A retail company operates its platform with STACKIT Kubernetes Engine: product catalog, shopping cart and search run in separate containers that are automatically started up when required. New functions are first tested in isolated environments and then seamlessly put live. This ensures that the store remains stable even at peak times and the development team can react quickly and in a controlled manner.

Practical tips for getting started with container orchestration with STACKIT

Getting started with container orchestration doesn’t have to be a major project. With well thought-out solutions, companies can lay the foundation for the secure deployment of their application. Whether you are new to Kubernetes or already have some experience with container applications, the following practical tips will help you get started safely and use STACKIT as a holistic solution.

Rely on automation right from the start. Integrate infrastructure as code and CI/CD pipelines to make your deployments reliable and repeatable. Automated processes minimize manual errors and make your infrastructure scalable and low-maintenance in the long term. You should also consider the issue of security in container orchestration at an early stage. Make sure to integrate security aspects as early as the development phase. Role-based access rights, regular checks and compliance checks can also be carried out at an early stage. You should also actively monitor your resources. With tools such as Prometheus and Grafana, you can keep an eye on storage and networks to ensure that resources are used efficiently and your costs are kept in check.

Before you containerize an existing service, you should carefully analyze its structure and dependencies. Separate persistent data from temporary components and test the migration in an isolated environment. This minimizes risks during the transition to productive operation. Think about hybrid scenarios at an early stage. STACKIT supports both hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Use this flexibility to gradually integrate existing systems, combine virtual machines with containers and make your IT landscape fit for the future.

STACKIT: Container orchestration that grows with you

Container orchestration unfolds its full potential precisely when it does more than just automate processes. It forms the basis for making complex IT environments manageable. STACKIT creates the necessary conditions for this.

In addition to technical performance, the platform primarily offers the necessary structure. Modern cloud applications can be managed automatically and efficiently, from development and deployment through to productive operation. This gives your IT teams the freedom to concentrate on their core competencies.

With STACKIT, you can maintain an overview of your resources at all times, reduce operational costs and create an infrastructure that not only meets current requirements, but also grows with your projects: a noticeable relief for many companies.

Frequently asked questions about container orchestration with STACKIT

How does container orchestration ensure resilience and self-healing?

STACKIT continuously monitors all clusters with Kubernetes. If a container fails, a replacement instance starts automatically. This self-healing function keeps applications stable even during load peaks or errors – without manual intervention. Rolling updates and repair mechanisms are integrated as standard.

What advantages does STACKIT offer compared to automatic scaling?

STACKIT scales applications dynamically: additional instances are started when workloads are high and reduced again when demand decreases. In this way, workloads remain performant and resources are used efficiently – ideal for seasonal fluctuations or unpredictable demand.

How does STACKIT support hybrid and multi-cloud environments?

STACKIT is based on open standards such as Kubernetes and Docker. This means that applications remain portable and can be moved flexibly between the public cloud, private cloud and on-premises. Hybrid scenarios, migrations and distributed management are easily possible.

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