Embedded Cluster Demo - Deploying Into a Customer Environment

Alex Parker and Kaylee McHugh
 | 
Jan 21, 2025

Deploying Kubernetes applications to diverse customer environments can be a complex and daunting task. Between varying operating systems, network configurations, and security requirements, ensuring a smooth installation often becomes a major challenge. However, Replicated’s Embedded Cluster is here to simplify and streamline the process, enabling software vendors to deliver Kubernetes-based applications effortlessly, regardless of the customer’s technical expertise or infrastructure.

Overcoming Deployment Challenges

Not everyone has Kubernetes, or the expertise to operate it effectively. They can have different operating systems and versions with various types of security hardening in place. There are different network typologies and proxy servers, and so many more variables that you need to account for, ideally before a customer tries to install and then raises an issue. In addition, your customers bought your application for the business value it provides, but requiring customers to operate complex infrastructure, like Kubernetes, distracts them from using the software they paid for and increases the likelihood of friction, failure and frustration. 

This is where Embedded Cluster comes into play, transforming Kubernetes into a transparent dependency that becomes part of the application deployment and upgrade processes.

How Embedded Cluster Works

Embedded Cluster enables software vendors to package and deliver Kubernetes applications in a way that customers can easily install and manage. Here’s how it simplifies deployment:

  1. Guided Installation: Customers access a download portal, where they retrieve a lightweight binary and license to begin the installation with a single command.
  1. Environment Validation: Before installation, the tool performs comprehensive preflight checks, ensuring the system meets requirements like CPU, memory, connectivity, and much more. This minimizes the risk of errors during deployment.
  1. Seamless Kubernetes Management: Embedded Cluster automatically installs and manages Kubernetes in the background. Customers interact with a user-friendly admin console, eliminating the need to understand Kubernetes.
  1. Flexible Configurations: It supports single- and multi-node clusters, and allows vendors to define valid cluster configurations, making deployment easy for customers.
  2. Production-Ready: While its ease of use is ideal for demonstrations and proofs of concept, Embedded Cluster is designed for production-grade deployments.

Empowering Software Vendors and Their Customers

With Embedded Cluster, Replicated empowers software vendors to focus on delivering business value instead of troubleshooting deployment issues. Vendors can configure environments to match application-specific needs, while customers benefit from a straightforward and reliable setup and management experience.

The Admin Console offers intuitive workflows for tasks like updates and backups, allowing customers to deploy and manage applications with minimal technical overhead. From environment validation to application deployment, every step is designed to reduce friction and enhance customer satisfaction.

Experience the Power of Embedded Cluster

Embedded Cluster demonstrates Replicated’s commitment to supporting software vendors and their customers by simplifying the complexities of Kubernetes application delivery. Whether you're looking to streamline installations, minimize operational challenges, or improve customer satisfaction, Embedded Cluster offers a powerful solution.

To see how Embedded Cluster can transform your deployment process, start a free trial or request a demo today at Replicated.com.

By turning Kubernetes into a seamless part of the deployment process, Replicated ensures that both software vendors and customers can focus on what truly matters—unlocking the value of the software.