Node Pools / Dedicated system nodes

Definition

Node pools are collections of nodes within a Kubernetes cluster that share the same configuration, such as machine type and size. Dedicated system nodes refer to node pools specifically designated for running system-level workloads, such as cluster management components and monitoring agents, to ensure that user workloads do not interfere with critical system processes. This separation enhances performance and security by isolating system resources from application workloads.

Secure Settings Example

apiVersion: v1
kind: Node
metadata:
  labels:
    dedicated: system
spec:
  taints:
  - key: dedicated
    value: system
    effect: NoSchedule

Insecure Settings Example

apiVersion: v1
kind: Node
metadata:
  labels:
    dedicated: system
spec:
  taints: []