Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist CKS
 
A Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) is a highly skilled Kubernetes professional with proven expertise in securing container-based applications and Kubernetes platforms. CKSs are also required to hold CKA certification.

The CKS exam assesses the ability to manage, configure, and utilize a secure Kubernetes environment. To succeed in the exam, candidates must comprehend Kubernetes security concepts, possess experience with Kubernetes security tools, understand the functionality of the API server, have proficiency in Linux fundamentals, and grasp the architecture and component interaction of Kubernetes.

While the CKS exam is known for its difficulty, it can be manageable within two hours with adequate practice and understanding of the concepts. Kubernetes expertise is currently in high demand within the IT industry, prompting novices and seasoned professionals to pursue certification to validate their skills.

What you'll learn:

- Implement Network security policies to restrict cluster-level access
- Utilize CIS benchmark to assess the security configuration of Kubernetes components (e.g., etched, kubelet, Rubens, kubeapi)
- Configure Ingress objects with proper security controls
- Safeguard node metadata and endpoints
- Minimize the use of GUI elements and access
- Validate platform binaries prior to deployment
- Limit access to Kubernetes API
- Employ Role Based Access Controls to reduce exposure
- Exercise caution with service accounts, such as disabling defaults and minimizing permissions on newly created ones
- Maintain frequent Kubernetes updates
- Reduce host OS footprint to minimize attack surface
- Limit IAM roles appropriately
- Restrict external network access
- Implement kernel hardening tools like AppArmor and seccomp
- Establish suitable OS-level security domains
- Manage Kubernetes secrets securely
- Utilize container runtime sandboxes in multi-tenant environments (e.g., visor, kata containers)
- Implement pod-to-pod encryption using metals
- Minimize base image footprint
- Secure supply chain by whitelisting allowed registries, signing and validating images
- Conduct static analysis of user workloads (Kubernetes resources, Docker files)
- Scan images for known vulnerabilities
- Perform behavioral analytics of syscall process and file activities at the host and container level to detect malicious activities
- Detect threats across physical infrastructure, applications, networks, data, users, and workloads
- Identify all stages of an attack, regardless of origin or propagation
- Conduct thorough investigative analysis and identify malicious actors within the environment
- Ensure container immutability at runtime
- Utilize Audit Logs for access monitoring