Creating a high-availability Kubernetes cluster at home is more accessible than ever. Using four Raspberry Pi 5 boards, I built a scalable, lightweight solution to explore Kubernetes and deploy home services.
Why a Pi5 Cluster?
The Raspberry Pi5, with 8GB RAM, is ideal for clustering due to its performance and reliability. While older models like the Pi4 work, the Pi5 offers better efficiency for running Kubernetes distributions like k3s.
Hardware Setup
Here’s the hardware I used:
- 4 Raspberry Pi 5 (8GB RAM)
- 5-Port Network Switch
- USB-C Multiport Charger
- 4 USB-C Cables (1’)
- 4 CAT6 Patch Cables (6”)
- 3D-Printed Case
You can use a WiFi router instead of Ethernet, but Ethernet is more stable for clustering.
Software Setup
• OS: Raspberry Pi OS Lite 64 (headless). Configure SSH and WiFi settings during flashing for a seamless start. Update the system using:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
• Kubernetes Distribution: I chose k3s for its lightweight nature. It balances functionality and resource efficiency, making it perfect for smaller setups.
Cluster Configuration
1. Master Node: Install k3s on one Pi as the master node.
2. Worker Nodes: Connect the remaining Pis as worker nodes. Verify the cluster using:
sudo kubectl get nodes
Managing the Cluster
For beginners, a web GUI like Portainer or Rancher simplifies Kubernetes management. However, understanding core concepts (Pods, Deployments, Services) is essential for long-term optimization.
Conclusion
This Raspberry Pi5 Kubernetes cluster demonstrates how accessible distributed computing has become. With minimal hardware and lightweight tools, you can deploy scalable services at home while learning cutting-edge technologies.
Efficient, affordable, and versatile—this setup makes exploring Kubernetes worthwhile.