Kubernetes version 1.33 introduces an exciting alpha feature: configurable tolerance in the HorizontalPodAutoscaler (HPA). This enhancement empowers users to adjust the scaling behavior of their workloads based on resource utilization, fulfilling a longstanding request within the community.
The HPA automatically regulates the number of pod replicas in a Kubernetes cluster according to specified resource metrics, like CPU utilization. In earlier versions, scaling adjustments were limited by a fixed tolerance of 10%, which may not suffice for larger deployments. With the latest release, administrators can now set distinct tolerances for scaling up and down, granting them greater control over the system’s responsiveness to fluctuations in demand.
To take advantage of this feature, follow these steps:
- Enable the HPAConfigurableTolerance feature gate in your Kubernetes cluster.
- Specify the desired tolerance in the HPA configuration under the
spec.behavior.scaleDownandspec.behavior.scaleUpfields.
Users can establish a smaller tolerance for scaling up, which facilitates quicker responses to spikes in resource usage, while a larger tolerance for scaling down minimizes abrupt changes in pod counts.
Kubernetes v1.33 enhances flexibility in workload management, simplifying the optimization of resource allocation within clusters. Explore additional technical details and guidelines for implementing this feature in the Kubernetes Enhancement Proposal (KEP) 4951.
For more information, visit the Kubernetes blog.
