CKS exam updated on October 15, 2024
Cloud Native and Kubernetes adoption is accelerating
Cloud native technology adoption continues to increase across all enterprises, with most new applications being built on cloud native platforms and, in particular, being built on Kubernetes. This is largely driven by the increasing maturity and trust in Kubernetes as a core cloud native technology, the de facto standard for managing cloud native environments. According to the 2023 CNCF Annual survey, 84% of the cloud native community is using or evaluating Kubernetes
At CNCF, we’re seeing a significant increase in new members, cloud native ambassadors, and Kubestronauts who have passed all Kubernetes certifications, indicating strong community support. Those who run applications on Kubernetes are trusting it more than ever to host mission critical elements, like databases, real-time analytics, and AI/ML workloads. In a recent survey of organizations that have already adopted Kubernetes, 80% report they are planning to build most of their new applications on cloud native. This means that their cloud native data platforms need to be able to provide enterprise-grade capabilities for these applications to run efficiently and securely.
However, adopting a cloud-native approach can introduce new challenges, including security and skills gaps. Practicing good cloud security protects organizations from a variety of risks that can have severe financial, operational, legal, and reputational consequences. Proper cloud security measures are essential to safeguarding data, maintaining compliance, and ensuring the continuity of business operations. In the 2023 Annual CNCF survey, 40% of organizations reported security as the leading challenge, but 46% say lack of training is the biggest challenge facing organizations that have not started, or are just beginning, their cloud native journey
Security certifications are crucial
CNCF is committed to growing the community of specialists knowledgeable in Kubernetes security to enable continued growth across organization and industries. Certification is a key step in that process, allowing certified security specialists to quickly establish their credibility and value in the job market, and also allowing companies to more quickly hire high-quality teams to support their growth.
Cloud security certifications like CKS and KCSA are especially important for Kubernetes professionals in the current digital landscape, where cloud environments must be secure to protect data and maintain business processes.
Value of the Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS)
The Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) certification, created by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), in collaboration with Linux Foundation Education and subject matter experts, is considered one of the most valuable certifications in the DevOps space because it’s a hands-on, performance-based certification exam that tests candidates’ knowledge of Kubernetes and cloud security in a simulated, real world environment. CKS certification also provides these benefits:
- Validation of Demonstrated Expertise: CKS certification proves that an individual has a deep understanding of Kubernetes security, including the ability to secure container-based applications and Kubernetes platforms during build, deployment, and runtime.
- Industry Recognition: As Kubernetes continues to be a leading platform for container orchestration, having a CKS certification is recognized by employers and peers as a mark of expertise in Kubernetes security, which is critical for roles involving cloud-native infrastructure.
- Career Advancement and Opportunities: With the increasing importance of security in software development and operations, professionals with CKS certification are well-positioned for roles such as DevSecOps engineers, cloud security architects, and Kubernetes administrators, leading to better job opportunities and career growth.
- Staying Current with Security Trends and Evolving Threats: The CKS exam requires a solid understanding of the latest security tools and techniques for Kubernetes, helping professionals stay updated with evolving security challenges in the cloud-native space and are prepared to handle emerging risks.
What is changing in the CKS?
The CKS exam was updated on October 15, 2024, to ensure that Certified Kubernetes Security Specialists have up-to-date skills and knowledge in securing Kubernetes and container-based applications. While the CKS domains (i.e. Cluster Setup, Cluster Hardening, etc.) will remain the same, there will be changes to competencies, including additions, deletions, and updated language, as well as adjustments to the percentage weight of some domains. These updates align with the latest developments in Kubernetes and cloud security.
Achieving your Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) is a prerequisite to registering and taking your CKS exam, although your CKA certification does not have to be active.
The CKS certification is especially valuable for those looking to specialize in the security aspects of Kubernetes – a critical area as container adoption continues to grow. As Kubernetes continues to dominate as the platform of choice for managing cloud-native applications, staying current with the latest security practices is essential. The upcoming changes to the CKS exam confirm that certified CKS IT professionals possess the most relevant skills and knowledge to protect container-based applications and allow the professionals to validate their expertise, as well as enhance their career prospects, contributing to the overall security and success of cloud-native initiatives across industries.