✅ Last updated: June 2025 (CKA v1.32)
This guide is crafted to help you confidently prepare for the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam. Whether you're managing clusters in production or just starting out, this page combines everything you need: exam objectives, real-world examples, prep labs, and insider tips—curated from experience.
In this guide, I’ll share all the resources you’ll need to prepare for the CKA exam. Plus, I’ll give you tips that helped me pass the CKA exam with a score of 98 out of 100.
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What Is CKA (Certified Kubernetes Administrator) Exam?
The official CNCF certification page says :
The purpose of the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) program is to provide assurance that CKAs have the skills, knowledge, and competency to perform the responsibilities of Kubernetes administrators.
Register for the CKA Certification
To begin your journey of becoming a Certified Kubernetes Administrator – start by registering for the exam on the Linux Foundation portal.
- 🗓️ You have 1 full year to schedule and take the exam after registering.
- 💻 Remotely proctored, browser-based exam with webcam and screen monitoring.
- ✅ Passing score: 66% or higher
- 🧾 Validity: 2 years
- ♻️ Includes 1 free retake
Note: If you miss your first scheduled attempt, your second one is void. - 🎯 Free access to killer.sh simulator labs — highly recommended!
📋 CKA Exam Details (2025)
- ⏱️ Duration: 2 hours of hands-on, performance-based tasks
- ✅ Passing Score: 66% or higher
- 📦 Kubernetes Version: v1.32 (Latest curriculum update – June 2025)
- 📅 Certification Validity: 2 years from the date of passing
- 💲 Exam Fee: $445 USD ( check to find coupon onlines)
The CKA exam is designed to test practical, real-world Kubernetes skills — no guesswork, just hands-on tasks. Here’s what to expect:
- ✅ 100% Performance-Based: You’ll be solving real problems directly in the terminal — no multiple-choice questions.
- 🔐 Limited Resources: Only the official Kubernetes documentation is allowed (no internet, notes, or local files).
- 🔄 Context Switching: You'll work across six different clusters, switching contexts for each task.
- 💻 Browser-Based & Proctored: The exam runs in a secure browser tab with webcam and screen monitoring.
- ⏳ Time Limit: You have 2 hours to complete all tasks.
🔍 Tip: Learn to use kubectl efficiently, master context switching, and get comfortable searching docs during command-line workflows.🚀 What’s New in CKA 2025?
The February 2025 curriculum update brought several important changes. While the exam domains and their weightings remain the same, the focus within those domains has shifted toward real-world, production-grade tooling:
- 📦 Helm & Kustomize Are Now First-Class Citizens
Expect questions that require templating and deploying Kubernetes resources using Helm charts or Kustomize overlays. These tools are critical for managing complex, reusable configurations and are now part of the core curriculum. - 🌐 Gateway API Replaces Classic Ingress
The olderIngressresource is still relevant, but the Gateway API is the new standard for managing north-south traffic. You’ll need to understandGatewayClass,Gateway, andHTTPRouteobjects and how they interact with ingress controllers. - ⚙️ CRDs and Operators Get a Bigger Spotlight
The exam now emphasizes extensibility in Kubernetes through Custom Resource Definitions (CRDs) and Operators. You should know how to inspect, install, and interact with custom resources—essential skills for real-world cluster management.
Here's a visual breakdown of the domain weightage for the CKA Exam (v1.32 - 2025).
Focus more on higher-weighted sections like Troubleshooting and Cluster Architecture for the best score outcome.
🎯 Pro Tip: Focus more on Troubleshooting and Cluster Architecture, as they make up over half of your potential score.
CKA Certification Preparation Guide ( 2025 )
This section will go over resources and links that can help you prepare for the CKA exam and pass the CKA certification with very good score.
CKA Exam Prerequisites: What You Really Need to Know
You don’t need any prior certifications to take the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam — no CKAD or other credentials are required.
What does matter? Two things:
- ✅ A strong conceptual understanding of core Kubernetes components and objects
- ✅ Plenty of hands-on practice — the exam is 100% practical and terminal-based
If you’re new to Kubernetes, many people (myself included) find it helpful to start with the CKAD. It’s a bit more focused on application-level skills and helps build a strong foundation before diving into cluster administration.
However, if you're already comfortable working with Kubernetes in production or managing clusters, you can absolutely start with the CKA.
🔧 Tip: Think of CKA as testing your ability to build and troubleshoot the engine, not just drive the car.
CKA Exam Syllabus ( Updated v1.32 2025)
The following table has the domains and competencies part of the syllabus along with their respective weightage.
| Topic | Skills Tested | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Cluster Architecture, Installation & Configuration |
| 25% |
| Workloads & Scheduling |
| 15% |
| Services & Networking |
| 20% |
| Storage |
| 10% |
| Troubleshooting |
| 30% |
Check Github Repo here for detailed topics :
techwithmohamed
CKA Practice Labs 2025
The CKA exam is entirely hands-on — success depends on how confidently you can work in a real terminal under time pressure.
Here’s a highly recommended way to sharpen your practical skills:
✅ Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) with Practice Tests
Instructor: Mumshad Mannambeth (KodeKloud)
📍 Platform: Udemy / KodeKloud
- One of the most trusted CKA prep resources globally
- Includes real-world labs, CLI tasks, YAML editing, and mock exams
- Continuously updated to align with the latest Kubernetes versions (now v1.32)
- Covers Helm, Kustomize, Gateway API, and troubleshooting scenarios
- Bonus: Two full-length killer.sh-style practice tests included
🎯 Ideal for: beginners and intermediate users who want a structured learning path with guided practice. 👉 View Course on Udemy
✅ killercoda.com
Interactive, browser-based Kubernetes playgrounds — no setup required.
It simulates real CLI environments, is updated for the CKA exam, and includes:
- Prebuilt CKA-specific scenarios
- Guided labs for K8s components (pods, deployments, services, etc.)
- Real cluster feel with zero local install
CKA Certification Learning Path (Updated for 2025)
Whether you’re just starting out or already hands-on with Kubernetes, this structured roadmap will guide your journey to ace the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam confidently.
You're a Beginner – Start from Zero
No worries! Follow this curated roadmap to build strong foundations in Linux, containers, and Kubernetes. With daily effort and practice, you'll become exam-ready in 5–6 months.
Phase 1: Master Linux Fundamentals
🧠 Why? Linux is the operating system underpinning Kubernetes clusters.
Topics to Cover:
- ✅ Intro to Linux – History, philosophy & command-line mindset
- ✅ Basic Shell –
cd,ls,mkdir,touch,rm,cat,chmod, etc. - ✅ Linux Kernel – What it does and why it matters
- ✅ RunLevels & Systemd – System startup flow
- ✅ File Types & Permissions –
file, symbolic links, device files, etc. - ✅ Package Management
- RPM/YUM (RHEL/CentOS)
- DPKG/APT (Debian/Ubuntu)
- ✅ vi/vim – Learn to edit files confidently (
i,:wq,:set nu) - ✅ Intro to GPG – Keys and encryption basics (
gpg,apg)
Phase 2: Build Networking Know-how
🧠 Why? Kubernetes runs distributed workloads. Networking is its backbone.
Learn these:
- ✅ IP Addressing, Subnetting, and Routing
- ✅ DNS Resolution –
dig,nslookup,resolv.conf - ✅ SSH/SCP – Secure remote access and file transfers
- ✅ iptables – How firewall rules affect Pod and node communication
Phase 3: Understand Containers & Orchestration
🧠 Why? Kubernetes is all about managing containerized apps.
Focus Areas:
- ✅ What are Containers? – Differences from VMs, layered images
- ✅ Docker Basics –
docker build,run,ps,logs,exec - ✅ Kubernetes Fundamentals:
- Pods, Deployments, Services
- ReplicaSets & scaling
- Namespaces & labels
⚙️ Phase 4: Dive into Kubernetes Internals
🧠 Why? CKA tests how well you understand and operate the internals.
Core Concepts:
- ✅ Cluster Setup (with Kubeadm)
- ✅ Pod Scheduling & Node Affinity
- ✅ Taints & Tolerations
- ✅ Autoscaling (HPA)
- ✅ Volumes, StorageClasses, PVCs
- ✅ Logging & Troubleshooting
- ✅ Ingress Controllers & Network Policies
- ✅ DNS in Clusters (CoreDNS)
🔐 Phase 5: Security & Observability
🧠 Why? Production Kubernetes means secure and observable workloads.
Topics to master:
- ✅ RBAC – Users, Roles, RoleBindings
- ✅ Secrets vs. ConfigMaps
- ✅ Audit logs & container logs
- ✅ Probes – Liveness & readiness
- ✅ Metrics & Monitoring –
metrics-server,kubectl top, Grafana/Prometheus (optional)
⏳ Suggested Timelines
| Experience Level | Time to Prepare (Daily 2 hrs) | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 🚀 Total Beginner | ~5–6 months | Start from Linux, build up to full cluster management |
| 👨💻 You Know Kubernetes | ~2–3 months | Focus on troubleshooting, networking, cluster lifecycle |
CKA Exam Study Resources
Preparing for the CKA in 2025 requires more than just reading documentation — it demands muscle memory, workflow confidence, and familiarity with real Kubernetes environments. Here’s what I recommend based on my own exam success and mentoring others through theirs:
Official Resources
These are the only resources allowed in the exam environment:
- Kubernetes Official Docs
- Kubernetes Blog & Subdomains
(Includes translated docs, e.g.https://kubernetes.io/zh/docs/)
Hands-On Learning Platforms (Highly Recommended)
- KodeKloud CKA Course (by Mumshad Mannambeth)
The gold standard. Includes a full practice curriculum, labs, and two full-length mock exams. - Killer.sh Simulator
Comes free with your CKA registration. These two exam simulations are the closest replica of the real test — in difficulty and interface. Time yourself and aim to complete both confidently before your real exam. - Killercoda Interactive Scenarios
CLI-based, browser-accessible training. Ideal for targeted practice on networking, storage, and cluster setup.
Essential kubectl Command Snippets (Quick Reference for CKA)
# 🔍 View & Troubleshoot Resource Details
kubectl describe pod <pod-name> # Inspect a pod (events, status, etc.)
kubectl explain deployment --recursive # Explore object structure and fields
kubectl get pods -o wide # View pods with extra node/IP details
kubectl get pods --show-labels # List pods and their labels
kubectl get pods --all-namespaces # List pods across all namespaces
# ⚙️ Create Resources Using Dry Run (Generate YAML)
kubectl create deployment nginx --image=nginx --dry-run=client -o yaml # Generate deployment YAML
kubectl run nginx --image=nginx --restart=Never --dry-run=client -o yaml # Generate single pod YAML
kubectl create service clusterip my-service --tcp=8080 --dry-run=client -o yaml # Generate service YAML
# 💾 Save YAML to File for Editing
kubectl run nginx --image=nginx --dry-run=client -o yaml > pod.yaml # Save pod config
kubectl create -f pod.yaml # Create resource from file
# ⏱️ Performance Monitoring
kubectl top nodes # Show CPU and memory usage per node
kubectl top pods --all-namespaces # Show resource usage for all pods
# 🔄 Context Switching & Setup
kubectl config use-context <context-name> # Switch between clusters
alias k=kubectl # Set alias for faster typing
# 📄 Logs and Events
kubectl logs <pod-name> # View logs of a pod
kubectl logs <pod-name> -c <container> # View logs for specific container
journalctl -u kubelet -f # Live logs from kubelet service
# 🧠 DNS & Connectivity Tests
kubectl exec -it <pod-name> -- nslookup <service-name> # DNS resolution
kubectl exec -it <pod-name> -- curl <ip>:<port> # Network access test
🔥 CKA Exam Tips & Strategy (Updated for 2025)
The Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam is a high-pressure, performance-based test—your success depends not only on Kubernetes knowledge but also on strategy, precision, and workflow. Below are essential tips from engineers who’ve passed the exam and helped others do the same.
⌨️ 1. Master the CLI — Speed & Precision Wins
The exam is fast-paced. Every second spent typing or Googling YAML structure is time lost. To work efficiently:
- Use aliases:
alias k=kubectl
export do='--dry-run=client -o yaml'- Generate YAML scaffolds quickly:
k create deploy nginx --image=nginx $do > deploy.yamlEdit, save, then apply: k apply -f deploy.yaml
- Use short names:
po,svc,cm,rs,pvc,pv– mastering these will save time in muscle memory. - Memorize
kubectl explainfor unknown fields: k explain pod.spec.containers --recursive
⚙️ 2. Practice the Right Way (Not Just Theory)
The CKA is not multiple choice — it’s real commands, real clusters, real debugging.
✅ Use Killer.sh (2 free sessions with registration).
✅ Practice on Killercoda, Play-with-K8s, or a local kubeadm setup.
✅ Simulate failure scenarios (e.g., CoreDNS crash, tainted nodes, non-scheduling pods).
💡 Pro Tip: Many questions are mini-troubleshooting exercises. Practice resolving common issues like:Pods stuck in PendingWrong container imagesDNS not resolvingMisconfigured services or Ingress🚀 3. Prepare for What’s New in 2025
CKA v1.32 includes a stronger focus on real-world tools:
- Helm: Install charts, override values, debug installs.
- Kustomize: Apply overlays, patch resources.
- Gateway API: Understand how
Gateway,HTTPRoute, andGatewayClasswork. - CRDs & Operators: Know how to explore and apply custom resources, and interpret logs.
You may not write a Helm chart from scratch, but you will need to install and debug with Helm/Kustomize.
🧭 4. Don’t Lose Points to Exam Logistics
Mistakes that hurt candidates the most:
- ❌ Forgetting to change context: k config use-context <cluster-name>
- ❌ Editing the wrong node (e.g., worker vs master)
- ❌ Not using
--namespacewhen needed - ❌ Skipping node label/taint checks on scheduling questions
✅ Use this checklist for every question:
- Check current context:
k config current-context - Check namespace:
k get all -n <namespace> - Review question weight (some tasks are worth 7-10%!)
- Mark difficult ones to revisit with time left
⏱️ 5. Time Management = Score Management
💡 Rule of thumb:
Spend no more than 10–12 minutes per task.
- Skip hard ones early, mark them for return.
- Aim to solve ~60–70% of the exam with full confidence.
- Leave 10–15 minutes at the end to double-check critical answers.
📖 6. Use Built-In Docs Strategically
You're allowed full access to:
📌 Bookmark these in your head:
/docs/reference/generated/kubectl//docs/concepts/workloads/controllers/deployment//docs/tasks/administer-cluster/kubeadm/
🧠 Tip: If a YAML field seems unfamiliar, copy-paste the resource name into the docs search.
🧘 7. Mindset: Stay Calm, Stay Focused
Stress is a big factor, especially if it’s your first live exam.
- The exam interface is stable, but you must stay disciplined with focus and pacing.
- Don’t get stuck. Move forward. Return later.
- You only need 66% to pass, and a free retake is included.
- Use Vim — no VS Code, no mouse. Just terminal, tab completion, and YAML.
✅ Recap: Your Real-World Exam Checklist
Before the exam:
- Use
alias k=kubectl - Test your webcam & stable internet
- Bookmark essential K8s doc pages
During the exam:
- Switch to correct context
- Use dry-run to scaffold YAML
- Use
kubectl explainfor unknown fields - Mark long or unclear tasks
- Review kubelet status after changes
- Keep an eye on the timer
After the exam:
- Celebrate. You’ve earned it.
CKA Question & Answers 2025
techwithmohamed
CKA Exam Day Checklist
✔️ Pre-Exam Setup
- Complete the Linux Foundation exam portal checklist.
- Test your internet connection (have a backup, like hotspot or second Wi-Fi).
- Ensure your webcam and microphone are functioning.
- Run the PSI system requirements check in advance.
- Clear your desk and surroundings — no physical notes or distractions.
- Have your government-issued ID ready for verification.
- Ensure your workspace is well-lit and quiet.
- Set up in a comfortable chair — the exam lasts 2 hours.
- Keep water nearby — hydration helps focus.
🖥️ Using an Extended Monitor?
- You can use one extended monitor as long as it’s connected to a single computer and your webcam covers the setup.
- If using a laptop + monitor, close the laptop lid and use only the external screen with webcam active.
- Ensure your monitor shows both terminal and documentation clearly.
- Expect the proctor to ask you to rotate the webcam to show your environment.
🎥 What Happens During the Exam?
- The exam is fully browser-based and remotely proctored (webcam + screen share).
- You’ll access 6 Kubernetes clusters using `kubectl config use-context`.
- You’re allowed to use only the official Kubernetes docs + GitHub.
- No notes, IDEs, search engines, or extra tabs allowed.
- The interface is minimal — terminal + docs in one tab.
🧘 Final Exam Day Tips
- Take 5–10 minutes before the exam to calm down, review context switching, and alias setup.
- Use `alias k=kubectl` and test `kubectl get nodes` to confirm context.
- Flag harder questions and return to them if needed — manage time wisely.
- You need 66% to pass. Don’t aim for perfection, aim for calm and correctness.
- And yes — you get a free retake if needed. Breathe. You're prepared.
For instance, the image below shows the exam interface. As you can see, a good widescreen monitor allows you to arrange the terminal and browser according to your preferences.
CKA Exam FAQs
Is CKA exam difficult?
CKA is a tricky exam, but you can take it with a good plan, consistent study, and practice. The preparation may take some of your family's time, but the result makes you feel confident about this cutting-edge technology.
Which is easier? CKA or CKAD?
CKAD exam is comparatively easier than CKA as deals with cluster administration and troubleshooting. At the same time, CKAD is more focused on application deployments and troubleshooting.
Retake Policy: You get a maximum of 2 attempts (per exam registration) to take the exam.
What should I do after CKA?
You should aim for CKS Exam. Candidates must have finished and passed the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam before actually taking the Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) exam.
Can I retake the CKA exam if I fail?
Yes , you can retake the CKA exam if you don't pass on your first attempt. However, there may be a waiting period before you can retake the exam, so it's important to thoroughly prepare and give your best effort.
Can I use an Extended Monitor For CKA Exam?
Yes. you can connect an extended monitor to a single computer as long as you have the camera attached to it
What To Do After CKA ?
Earning your Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) certification is a major accomplishment. It proves you have the skills to deploy, manage, and troubleshoot production-grade Kubernetes clusters. But the CKA is not the end — it's a strong foundation on which you can build deeper cloud-native expertise.
Here’s how to continue your journey:
1. Advance to the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist)
The Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) is the next logical step after CKA. It focuses on securing Kubernetes clusters and workloads throughout the container lifecycle. You'll learn about:
- Securing the supply chain and container images
- Applying Pod security standards and runtime controls
- Implementing RBAC, NetworkPolicies, and other security primitives
- Managing Kubernetes audit logs and monitoring tools
Note: The CKA is a prerequisite for the CKS.
Explore: CKS Official Page
2. Deepen or Broaden Your CNCF Certifications
Depending on your goals, you may also consider:
- CKAD (Certified Kubernetes Application Developer) – for those focused on building and deploying apps on Kubernetes
- Prometheus Certified Associate (PCA) – to validate monitoring and observability skills
- KCNA (Kubernetes & Cloud Native Associate) – a good teaching or foundational tool for onboarding junior engineers
- Explore service meshes (e.g., Istio, Linkerd) or GitOps (Argo CD, Flux) if you're looking into platform engineering
3. Apply Your Skills in the Real World
Now that you're certified, it's time to use what you've learned:
- Add your CKA badge to LinkedIn and your resume
- Take ownership of Kubernetes-related projects at work
- Offer to help optimize or migrate workloads in your organization
- Share your study journey — blog posts or internal training sessions are highly valuable
4. Contribute or Build a Portfolio
Certification is proof of skill, but real-world implementation builds credibility. Consider:
- Starting a GitHub repository showcasing real use cases or deployment strategies
- Contributing to open-source tools (even docs are a great entry point)
- Joining Kubernetes Slack, CNCF community events, or a local meetup
- Publishing case studies, automation scripts, or learning guides
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing our comprehensive CKA exam study guide.
By following the roadmap we've provided and mastering the essential concepts, you're well on your way to becoming a Certified Kubernetes Administrator. Remember to practice regularly, explore additional resources, and stay up to date with the latest Kubernetes developments. Best of luck in your CKA exam journey!
