Description: Kubernetes Helm is a package manager specifically designed for Kubernetes, allowing developers and system administrators to define, install, and upgrade complex applications in a Kubernetes cluster efficiently. Helm employs a template-based approach, making it easier to create reusable and customizable configurations for applications. Through its chart system, Helm organizes Kubernetes resources into a single package, known as a ‘chart’, which can include everything needed to deploy an application, such as configurations, dependencies, and infrastructure resources. This not only simplifies the deployment process but also enables more effective management of application versions and updates. Helm has become an essential tool in the Kubernetes ecosystem, allowing development and operations teams to collaborate more smoothly and agilely, facilitating the adoption of DevOps practices and continuous deployment. Its ability to handle complex applications and its integration with other tools in the Kubernetes ecosystem make it a key component for container orchestration in production environments.
History: Kubernetes Helm was created by Deis, Inc. and was first released in 2015. Since its launch, Helm has significantly evolved, becoming the most popular package manager for Kubernetes. In 2018, Helm 2 was released, introducing improvements in security and version management. In 2020, Helm 3 was launched, which removed the dependency on Tiller, a component that managed the installation of charts, thereby improving security and simplifying its use.
Uses: Helm is primarily used to manage applications on Kubernetes, allowing users to easily install, upgrade, and uninstall applications. It is also used to manage dependencies between different applications and to version configurations, facilitating continuous deployment and the integration of new features in production environments.
Examples: A practical example of Helm is its use in deploying popular applications on a Kubernetes cluster. Users can utilize predefined charts to deploy these applications with customized configurations in minutes, simplifying the installation and management process.