K3s
A lightweight Kubernetes distribution designed for resource-constrained environments and edge computing.
K3s is a streamlined, certified Kubernetes distribution optimized for running container orchestration on edge devices, IoT deployments, and small-scale development setups. Developed by Rancher Labs, K3s reduces the resource footprint and operational complexity compared to standard Kubernetes, making it ideal for environments with limited CPU and memory.
K3s packages the entire Kubernetes stack—including container runtime and networking—in a single binary, supports ARM architectures, and provides simplified installation and automatic TLS management. Its lightweight nature allows organizations to extend cloud-native capabilities to remote locations and quickly deploy AI workloads at the edge.
Despite its minimal footprint, K3s maintains compatibility with Kubernetes APIs and tools, enabling seamless integration with larger cloud or hybrid environments. It is particularly useful for edge AI, rapid prototyping, and distributed applications that require flexibility and ease of management.