Google Cloud Containers & Kubernetes

Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE)

Managed Kubernetes from the company that created Kubernetes, with an Autopilot mode that manages nodes for you.

What is Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE)?

Google Kubernetes Engine runs Kubernetes clusters for you. In Autopilot mode Google also manages the nodes, so you only describe your workloads; Standard mode gives you control of node pools.

Key features

  • Autopilot and Standard modes
  • Automatic upgrades and repairs
  • Cluster and pod autoscaling
  • Workload Identity for secure access
  • GPUs and TPUs for AI workloads

What it is used for

  • Kubernetes platforms
  • Microservices
  • Portable workloads

When to use it

  • Kubernetes-based platforms
  • Many microservices
  • AI and batch workloads needing orchestration

When something else fits better

  • A handful of web services (Cloud Run is simpler)

How pricing works

A cluster management fee (with a free tier for one cluster), plus Autopilot per-pod resources or Standard node VM costs. Prices change and differ by region; we confirm current costs for your setup before you commit.

Equivalent on AWS

The closest AWS service is Amazon EKS: managed Kubernetes: AWS runs the Kubernetes control plane while you run your workloads.

How DomainHostly helps with Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE)

  • Plan: choose the right setup, size and region for your workload and budget.
  • Set up securely: configure Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) with least-privilege access, encryption and backups where they apply.
  • Migrate: move from shared hosting, your own servers or the other cloud with minimal downtime.
  • Run and optimise: monitoring, updates and regular cost reviews so you only pay for what you use.

Containers & Kubernetes: Run applications packaged as containers, with managed Kubernetes and container registries.

What to consider: Containers & Kubernetes

  • Keep images small and scanned; store them in a private registry close to where they run.
  • Choose serverless containers for a few services and Kubernetes when you run many services or need its ecosystem.
  • Set CPU and memory requests and autoscaling rules so you pay for what containers actually use.

Related services: Containers & Kubernetes