Kubernetes Dashboard vs. Other Web UIs

Over the years, Kubernetes has transformed the way we deploy and manage containerized applications. However, with great power comes great complexity. Navigating the complexities of cluster resources requires solutions that simplify management while adapting to different workflows and scalability requirements.

The Kubernetes Dashboard has long been a popular tool among many teams, providing a simple web-based user interface for monitoring and controlling Kubernetes resources. However, when clusters grow in size and complexity, more advanced capabilities, customization, and extensibility become necessary. This has resulted in the emergence of various web UIs, each designed to handle distinct issues and serve a variety of use cases.

In this article, we will compare the Kubernetes Dashboard's features and limitations to those of alternative web UIs to help you decide which solution best suits your Kubernetes management requirements. Whether you're seeking simplicity, scalability, or extensive capabilities, the appropriate option can change the way you work with your cluster.

What is a Kubernetes Dashboard?

The Kubernetes Dashboard is a visually straightforward web-based user interface for managing and monitoring Kubernetes clusters. It acts as a centralized platform for communicating with your Kubernetes environment, providing a graphical representation of your cluster's status, resources, and workloads. The dashboard facilitates operations such as deploying containerized apps to a Kubernetes cluster, scaling workloads, and troubleshooting.

Key Benefits of the Kubernetes Dashboard

The Kubernetes Dashboard serves several key purposes:

1. Simplified cluster management

The dashboard is a web-based user interface for managing Kubernetes resources. Rather than memorizing complex kubectl instructions, users access a graphical interface to execute operations such as deployment creation, application scaling, and configuration updates.

2. Real-time monitoring

The dashboard provides real-time updates on your cluster's state. You can view metrics such as CPU and memory use, check the status of pods and nodes, and access logs for troubleshooting purposes.

3. Improved accessibility

The dashboard makes Kubernetes easier to learn for new users or those who prefer visual tools. It offers an accessible way to interact with Kubernetes resources without extensive command-line experience.

4. Streamlined troubleshooting

The dashboard, which includes capabilities like log viewing and resource status tracking, makes it easier to identify and resolve issues in your cluster.

Key features of the Kubernetes Dashboard

1. Web-Based User Interface

The dashboard provides a web-based user interface, eliminating the need for significant command-line operations. It displays a graphical depiction of your cluster's status, making it accessible to users of various skill levels.

2. Overview of Applications Running

The dashboard provides a real-time view of the applications running in your cluster. You can see the status of deployments, pods, replica sets, and stateful sets, making it simple to track the health and performance of your applications.

3. Resource Management

The dashboard enables you to create, update, and delete Kubernetes resources such as deployments, services, configuration maps, and secrets. This streamlines operations like application scaling, configuration updates, and storage management.

4. Authentication and Authorization

The dashboard supports various authentication methods, including tokens and kubeconfig files. That way, only authorized people can access and control the cluster.

Installing and accessing Kubernetes Dashboard securely

Deploying the Kubernetes Dashboard

Step 1: Deploy the dashboard

The dashboard can be deployed using kubectl or Helm charts. Below are the steps for both methods.

Method 1: Using kubectl

a. Deploy the dashboard:

Run the following command to deploy the dashboard:

```
kubectl apply -f https://raw.githubusercontent.com/kubernetes/dashboard/v2.7.0/aio/deploy/recommended.yaml
```

b. Verify the deployment:

Check that the dashboard is running:

```
kubectl get pods -n kubernetes-dashboard
```

Method 2: Using helm charts

a. Add the helm repository:

Add the Kubernetes Dashboard repository to Helm:

```
helm repo add kubernetes-dashboard https://kubernetes.github.io/dashboard/
```

b. Install the dashboard:

Deploy the dashboard using Helm:

```
helm upgrade --install kubernetes-dashboard kubernetes-dashboard/kubernetes-dashboard \
--namespace kubernetes-dashboard \
--create-namespace
```

c. Verify the deployment:

Check that the dashboard is running:

```
kubectl get pods -n kubernetes-dashboard
```

Accessing the Kubernetes Dashboard securely

By default, the dashboard is only accessible from within the cluster. To access it securely, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a secure connection

Use kubectl proxy to create a secure connection to the dashboard:

Start the proxy:

Run the following command:

```
kubectl proxy
```

Access the dashboard:

Open your browser and navigate to:

```
http://localhost/8001/api/v1/namespaces/kubernetes-dashboard/services/https:kubernetes-dashboard:/proxy/
```

Step 2: Authenticate

The dashboard requires an authentication method to access the cluster. You can use a token, kubeconfig file, or other authentication mechanisms. Below, we’ll create a service account and token for authentication.

Create a service account:

```
apiVersion: v1
kind: ServiceAccount
metadata:
name: admin-user
namespace: kubernetes-dashboard
```

Create a ClusterRoleBinding:

```

apiVersion: rbac.authorization.k8s.io/v1

kind: ClusterRoleBinding

metadata:

name: admin-user

roleRef:

apiGroup: rbac.authorization.k8s.io

kind: ClusterRole

name: cluster-admin

subjects:

- kind: ServiceAccount

name: admin-user

namespace: kubernetes-dashboard

```

Get the token:

Retrieve the token for the service account:

```
kubectl -n kubernetes-dashboard create token admin-user
```

Use this token to log in to the dashboard.

Comparing Kubernetes Dashboard with other web UIs

The Kubernetes Dashboard is a popular web-based user interface that simplifies managing Kubernetes resources. However, there are also more web UIs that provide more functionality, better integrations, and greater scalability. Let's explore their features, deployment techniques, and use cases.

1. Lens

Lens is a desktop Kubernetes UI with detailed cluster insights and management features. Unlike the Kubernetes Dashboard, which runs within a cluster, Lens is a stand-alone application that connects to several clusters.

Deployment: Lens is a standalone desktop application that does not require cluster deployment. Just download and install it from the official website.

Access: Lens communicates directly with your Kubernetes clusters using kubeconfig files. It does not require a proxy or any further configuration.

2. Rancher

The Rancher UI is a user-friendly, web-based interface that simplifies Kubernetes cluster deployment, management, and monitoring by providing centralized control and tools for DevOps teams to manage containerized workloads.

Deployment: Rancher can be deployed using Helm charts:

```

helm repo add rancher-latest https://releases.rancher.com/server-charts/latest

helm upgrade --install rancher rancher-latest/rancher \

--namespace cattle-system \

--create-namespace

```

Access: Rancher offers a web-based interface that can be viewed through a browser. It supports several authentication mechanisms, including LDAP and OAuth.

3. Octant

Octant is an open-source Kubernetes UI designed for application development. Unlike the Kubernetes Dashboard, which focuses on general cluster management, Octant is designed for developers who require visibility into cluster resources.

Deployment: Octant is a stand-alone application that can be installed through package managers such as Homebrew or downloaded straight from GitHub.

Access: Octant runs locally and can be accessed through a web browser. It connects to your Kubernetes clusters via kubeconfig files.

Comparison Table

Performance and scalability are important factors to consider when choosing a Kubernetes web UI. Some tools excel at handling large clusters, while others are better suited to small-scale or API development environments.

Below is a comparison of Kubernetes Dashboard, Lens, Rancher, and Octant in terms of scalability and performance:

Which one should you choose?

• Kubernetes Dashboard is a good option for a simple, lightweight UI, but it lacks complex features.
• Lens is a great option for managing several clusters, optimizing performance, and monitoring in real-time.
• Rancher is the best tool for corporate features, security, and large-scale operations.
• Octant is an excellent choice for Kubernetes developers who need to debug their applications.

By taking these criteria into account, you may select the optimal web UI for your cluster size, workload, and operational requirements.

Kubernetes Dashboard security risks and how to mitigate them

While the Kubernetes Dashboard makes cluster management more manageable, it also introduces potential security risks that administrators must address. Below, we explore these risks and outline strategies to mitigate them.

1. Unauthenticated Access

One of the most serious security problems is exposing the Kubernetes Dashboard without appropriate authentication procedures. Such exposure could result in unauthorized users obtaining access to sensitive data or carrying out unlawful actions within the cluster.

Mitigation Strategy

• Implement robust authentication methods: The dashboard should require user authentication, preferably by integrating with current identity providers or via Kubernetes' role-based access control (RBAC) system.
• Avoid Public Exposure: Do not connect the dashboard to the public Internet. Instead, limit access to trustworthy networks or use secure methods, such as the kubectl proxy, for local access.

2. Disclosure of Sensitive Data

The Kubernetes Dashboard offers a comprehensive view of cluster resources, such as secrets, configurations, and workloads. Without sufficient security, unauthorized individuals can gain access to critical data such as API keys, passwords, and certificates.

Mitigation Strategy:

• Enable HTTPS: To encrypt data in transit, always deploy the Kubernetes Dashboard with HTTPS enabled. To create TLS certificates, run the kubectl command and configure the dashboard to utilize them.
• Audit Logging: Enable audit logs to track access to the dashboard and detect unauthorized attempts to access sensitive information.

3. Public Exposure of the Dashboard

Deploying the Kubernetes Dashboard without restricting access to trustworthy IP addresses or networks exposes it to the public internet, making it a prime target for attackers.

Mitigation Strategies:

• Use network policies: Implement Kubernetes Network Policies to restrict dashboard access. For example, you can allow only specific IP ranges or namespaces to access the dashboard.
• Use Ingress with Authentication: If you need to expose the dashboard externally, secure access by using an Ingress controller with authentication (e.g., an OAuth2 proxy).

When to choose Kubernetes Dashboard vs. other web UIs

When deciding between Kubernetes Dashboard and other web-based user interfaces for managing Kubernetes clusters, consider factors such as deployment ease, security, feature set, and the ability to manage Kubernetes resources effectively. Kubernetes Dashboard is a native, general-purpose UI, whereas alternatives often offer specialized features or enhanced security. Here's a breakdown of when to use Kubernetes Dashboard over other web UIs.

1. You need a native Kubernetes UI.

The Kubernetes Dashboard UI is an official project managed by the Kubernetes community. It provides an overview of the applications operating in the cluster, making it an excellent solution for customers who prefer an interface that adheres closely to Kubernetes's best practices.

2. You want a simple overview of cluster resources.

The Kubernetes Dashboard provides a high-level view of cluster resources, workloads, and namespaces. It makes it easier for developers unfamiliar with complicated CLI-based tools to monitor and manage clusters.

3. You need a lightweight UI for basic cluster management.

Compared to some alternatives, the Kubernetes Dashboard is lightweight, making it suitable for users who need a simple, built-in solution without additional work.

When to Choose Other Web UIs

1. You are managing large or complex clusters.

The Kubernetes Dashboard may lack performance and scalability for large-scale or highly complex clusters. Alternatives such as Rancher or Lens are better for handling large environments.

2. You need advanced features and customization.

While the Kubernetes Dashboard is excellent for basic use cases, it lacks some of the advanced functionality offered by alternatives. Other web UIs may be a better fit for custom dashboards, advanced monitoring, or integration with third-party tools.

3. You require enhanced security features.

While the Kubernetes Dashboard supports RBAC and HTTPS, it may not meet the security requirements of highly regulated environments. Alternatives often provide additional security features, such as built-in auditing, compliance checks, and integration with enterprise authentication systems.

When deciding between the Kubernetes Dashboard and other web UIs, consider ease of deployment, feature set, security requirements, team expertise, and scalability.

Can You Customize the Kubernetes Dashboard?

Extensibility and customization are important considerations when choosing a web-based user interface to manage Kubernetes resources. Customizing the tool to meet individual requirements can significantly boost productivity and streamline procedures. Let's explore the extensibility and customization possibilities available in the Kubernetes Dashboard.

1. Limited plugin support.

The Kubernetes Dashboard does not natively accept plugins or extensions. This means that you can't quickly add new features or integrate third-party applications straight into the dashboard.

• Workarounds: Although the dashboard cannot be extended, you can use the kubectl command or custom scripts to automate processes and interface with external tools.
• Custom Dashboards: For more advanced visualizations, you may need to use external monitoring tools such as Prometheus and Grafana.

2. Custom Resource Definitions (CRDs)

The Kubernetes Dashboard has basic support for Custom Resource Definitions (CRDs), which allows you to view and manage custom resources. However, the level of support is determined by the CRD's schema and the dashboard's capacity to present it.

• Limitations: The dashboard doesn't always completely support complicated CRDs or offer extensive visualization of customized resources.
• Workarounds: Use the kubectl command or other tools such as Lens or Octant to improve CRD management.

3. UI customization

The Kubernetes Dashboard UI is relatively static and does not provide extensive modification options. The dashboard shows a defined set of views for cluster resources like nodes, pods, and deployments. You can't change the layout, add custom widgets, or build individual dashboards.

Limitations: Unlike some other options, you cannot add custom widgets or visualizations to the dashboard.

Key considerations for extensibility and customization

When considering the extensibility and customization options of a Kubernetes web UI, consider the following factors:

1. Plugins and extension support

2. Custom dashboards and visualization

3. Multi-cluster management

4. Security and compliance

Conclusion

The Kubernetes Dashboard is a simple, web-based user interface that displays an overview of applications operating in a Kubernetes cluster. It is excellent for small to medium-sized clusters and teams who want a straightforward, out-of-the-box solution. The dashboard is simple to set up and integrate with Kubernetes RBAC and authentication methods, making it a straightforward way to manage and monitor Kubernetes resources. However, its extension and customization possibilities are restricted, making it unsuitable for complex use cases or large-scale systems. For organizations that require simple functionality and quick setup, the Kubernetes Dashboard is a solid choice.