Kubernetes Network Policies#

A pillar page on Network Policies (TBD)

What They Are#

  • Definition: Kubernetes Network Policies are a set of rules and configurations that control the traffic flow within a Kubernetes cluster. They specify how pods can communicate with each other, based on various criteria such as labels, namespaces, or ports.

  • Object Type: Network Policies are a Kubernetes resource type that defines network rules using labels and selectors to control ingress (incoming) and egress (outgoing) traffic for pods.

Why Use Them#

  • Security: Network Policies are crucial for enhancing security within Kubernetes clusters. They allow fine-grained control over which pods can communicate, helping to minimize the attack surface and prevent unauthorized access.

  • Microsegmentation: Network Policies facilitate microsegmentation, which isolates workloads and services from one another, reducing the risk of lateral movement by attackers.

How to Use Them#

  • YAML Configuration: Network Policies are defined in YAML files. You specify which pods should be allowed to communicate with each other by creating NetworkPolicy resources. These resources include pod selectors, ingress and egress rules, and pod labels.

  • API Management: Network Policies are managed through Kubernetes APIs. You can create, update, and delete Network Policies using kubectl or other Kubernetes management tools.

Cilium Network Policies#

  • Layer 7 Control: Cilium Network Policies extend Kubernetes Network Policies by offering Layer 7 (L7) control, enabling you to specify rules based on application-layer attributes like HTTP headers. This allows for more precise security configurations.

  • Visibility: Cilium provides advanced network visibility and monitoring, making it easier to create and enforce network policies effectively.

  • DNS Support: Cilium Network Policies offer DNS support, allowing you to control pod-to-pod DNS communication.

  • Mutual Authentication: Cilium's network policies support mutual authentication, enhancing security by verifying the identity of both parties in a communication.

Cilium's network policies build upon Kubernetes Network Policies to provide enhanced security, flexibility, and control within your Kubernetes environment. They are a powerful tool for securing and managing your containerized applications.

On this page