Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA)

The KCNA certification validates a candidate’s foundational understanding of Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies. This includes deploying applications using fundamental kubectl commands, grasping Kubernetes architecture (containers, pods, nodes, clusters), exploring the cloud-native ecosystem and its key projects (storage, networking, GitOps, service mesh), and comprehending the core principles of cloud-native security.

The Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) exam validates your foundational expertise in Kubernetes and the broader cloud-native ecosystem. After earning your certification, showcase your badge on LinkedIn, LFX, GitHub, and other professional platforms to enhance your visibility within the open-source community and stand out to potential employers.

How does the KCNA certification benefit you?

Boosts Career Growth
Recognized Credential Across Industries
Demonstrates In-Demand Cloud Skills
Expands Networking Opportunities

Exam Details

The Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) exam is an online, proctored test with 60 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam, which is remotely monitored through streaming audio, video, and screen-sharing feeds. To pass the KCNA exam, a minimum score of 75% is required. Exam results are sent via email within 24 hours of completion, and the exam is available in both English and Japanese.

Course Outline

To effectively prepare for the Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) exam, focus on the following key topics:

1. Kubernetes Fundamentals 46%

Kubernetes Resources
Kubernetes Architecture
Kubernetes API
Containers
Scheduling

2. Container Orchestration 22%

Container Orchestration Fundamentals
Runtime
Security
Networking
Service Mesh
Storage

3. Cloud Native Architecture 16%

Autoscaling
Serverless
Community and Governance
Roles and Personas
Open Standards

4. Cloud Native Observability 8%

Telemetry & Observability
Prometheus
Cost Management

5. Cloud Native Application Delivery 8%

Application Delivery Fundamentals
GitOps
CI/CD

Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) Exam FAQs

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Exam System Requirements

Candidates are required to perform the PSI Online Proctoring System Check to ensure their device meets the necessary technical specifications for a proctored exam.

The exam will be conducted through PSI’s proctoring platform, “Bridge,” utilizing the PSI Secure Browser, which is designed to ensure secure exam delivery via a virtual connection.

The download and installation of the secure browser will begin once you select “Launch exam” from the PSI Dashboard.

Candidates must use their computer and meet the following requirements:

Supported Operating Systems: Please refer to the System Requirements provided by PSI, especially for supported OS details.
Browser Compatibility: While all browsers are supported, PSI strongly recommends using the latest version of Google Chrome for optimal scheduling and exam experience, as the secure browser is Chrome-based.
Monitor: One active monitor, either built-in or external, is required.

For more information, check here.

Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) Exam Study Guide

1. Understand The Linux Foundation Handbook

The Linux Foundation, a non-profit consortium established in 2007, is committed to promoting the growth of Linux. It supports the work of Linux creator Linus Torvalds and is backed by prominent Linux and open-source companies and developers worldwide. The foundation collaborates closely with open-source project communities to offer respected, hands-on certifications to technology professionals globally.

What sets The Linux Foundation apart is its deep involvement in more than just certifying skills for in-demand technologies. It also hosts the projects that drive these technologies forward, providing essential resources and staffing to maintain vibrant and healthy development communities. In essence, The Linux Foundation is at the forefront of these technologies, making it the closest entity to their ongoing evolution.

2. Understand the Kubernetes Fundamentals

To effectively prepare for the KCNA exam, a solid understanding of Kubernetes fundamentals is crucial. This includes grasping core concepts such as Pods, Nodes, and Clusters, which form the building blocks of a Kubernetes environment. Additionally, comprehending the role of Namespaces, Services, and Ingresses in organizing and exposing applications is essential. A deep dive into Deployment, ReplicaSet, and Job objects will enable you to manage application lifecycle and scaling. ConfigMaps and Secrets are vital for storing configuration data and sensitive information securely. Lastly, understanding Persistent Volumes and Persistent Volume Claims ensures data persistence across node failures.

3. Use the Official Resources

The KCNA exam comes with various resources such as:

– The KCNA Learning Path

If you’re aiming to become a certified Kubernetes & Cloud Native Associate (KCNA), consider following the path covering the right resources, along with dedicated study, research, and hands-on practice, you can achieve your certification within 3 to 6 months, depending on your current experience level. The path course include:

4. Gain Practical Hands-on Experience

Gaining practical, hands-on experience is paramount to solidify your understanding of Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies. Setting up a Kubernetes cluster, either on a cloud platform or locally using tools like Minikube or Kind, provides a sandbox environment to experiment and learn. Deploying and managing applications using kubectl, writing YAML manifests, and troubleshooting common issues will reinforce your knowledge. Exploring cloud-native technologies like service meshes, observability tools, and configuration management tools will broaden your skill set and prepare you for real-world scenarios.

5. Join Study Groups

Joining study groups can significantly enhance your KCNA exam preparation. Collaborating with fellow learners provides opportunities to discuss concepts, share insights, and work together on practice problems. By engaging in group discussions, you can clarify doubts, identify knowledge gaps, and gain different perspectives on complex topics. Additionally, study groups can create a supportive and motivating environment, helping you stay focused and accountable throughout your preparation journey.

6. Take Practice Exams

Taking practice exams is a crucial step in your KCNA exam preparation. It allows you to assess your knowledge, identify areas where you need improvement, and simulate the actual exam experience. Practice exams often cover a wide range of topics, including Kubernetes core concepts, containerization, cloud-native principles, and security. By analyzing your performance on practice exams, you can tailor your study plan to focus on specific areas that require more attention.