Replicated KOTS

Replicated KOTS is a tool for packaging, installing, and operating Kubernetes applications that are delivered to customer-managed clusters.

What It Solves

• Shipping a Kubernetes app as a supported product.
• Handling installation, configuration, and upgrades in a repeatable way.
• Running preflight checks before a deployment is accepted.
• Supporting air-gapped or restricted environments.

Core Ideas

• KOTS runs as a kubectl plugin on the operator machine.
• The application is delivered as a bundle with manifests and metadata.
• A customer installs the app into their own cluster.
• Replicated provides an operational layer around support, upgrade, and lifecycle management.

Common Workflow

1. Package the application for distribution.
2. Define configuration values and preflight checks.
3. Install the app with kubectl kots install.
4. Open the admin console to configure and manage releases.
5. Push updates through a controlled channel.

Why Teams Use It

• It reduces the amount of custom installer logic you need to maintain.
• It gives support teams a consistent way to inspect customer installations.
• It works well when the product must run in Kubernetes but not in a fully managed SaaS model.

Practical Notes

• Treat the release bundle as part of the product.
• Preflight checks should fail fast on missing prerequisites.
• Keep configuration values explicit and documented for operators.