Becoming a Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) was never on my roadmap—until curiosity met opportunity. With a background in Oracle databases, enterprise applications, and cloud technologies, I had little to no hands-on exposure to Docker or Kubernetes. But once I dipped my toes in, there was no turning back.
This blog post is for anyone considering the CKA exam — especially those from non-container backgrounds — to show that it's achievable with the right plan, mindset, and practice.
📌 CKA Exam Overview (2025 Version)
Before diving into the preparation, let’s quickly understand what the exam entails:
Duration: 2 hours
Format: Online, performance-based (100% hands-on tasks)
Passing Score: 66%
Number of Questions: Around 15–20 practical questions (weighted)
Documentation: Full access to Kubernetes official documentation during the exam
Exam Environment: Conducted on PSI Secure Browser (check system compatibility in advance)
🛠️ My Starting Point: Zero Container Experience
Coming from a background in Oracle databases, enterprise applications, and cloud infrastructure, I had developed a strong foundation in systems and architecture. However, I hadn’t yet had the opportunity to work directly with Docker or Kubernetes in my previous roles — they simply hadn’t intersected with the projects I was part of. That changed when I made a conscious decision to explore containerization and Kubernetes, recognizing its growing importance in modern infrastructure and DevOps practices.
🧱 Building the Foundation
Here’s how I structured my preparation, step by step.
1️⃣ Learn Linux Basics
Thanks to my previous experience, I already had a working knowledge of Linux environments. However, for those starting out, I highly recommend strengthening your grip on the following areas:
- Basic shell commands and scripting
- File system navigation and permissions
- Process and service management (ps, top, kill, systemctl)
- System monitoring (df, free, uptime, vmstat)
- Search and filter commands (grep, find, awk, cut)
- Proficiency with vi or vim editor
While Kubernetes knowledge is the focus, Linux familiarity is what enables smooth troubleshooting and faster execution during the exam.
2️⃣ Understand Docker Fundamentals
Containers are the building blocks of Kubernetes. I took a beginner-level Docker course to understand:
- Images vs Containers
- Volumes
- Networking
- Dockerfile basics
- Common CLI commands (docker run, docker build, docker exec etc.)
📘 Kubernetes Basics – Get Comfortable with Core Concepts
To build a strong initial understanding, I found the “Kubernetes for Beginners” course by KodeKloud to be quite helpful. It’s a good starting point for:
- Visualizing how Kubernetes manages containers
- Interacting with clusters using kubectl
- Understanding key objects like Pods, Deployments, Services, Namespaces
Even if you're already familiar with cloud infrastructure, this course helps bridge the mental model between traditional workloads and Kubernetes-native thinking.
📚 Deep-Dive with Books
Once I was comfortable with the basics, I explored advanced concepts using these great reads:
Nigel Poulton – The Kubernetes Book (2025 Edition)
Clear, concise, and updated for 2025 — a great starting point to demystify core concepts.
Benjamin Muschko – Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) Study Guide
Tailored for the exam. Deeply technical, with exam-aligned objectives and walkthroughs.
Kubernetes Up & Running
A bit more theory-heavy but excellent for building a well-rounded understanding of Kubernetes use cases and architecture.
🧪 Structured Practice – The Real Game Changer
Once I had a solid grip on the theoretical concepts, it became clear that the real challenge of the CKA exam lies in doing, not just knowing. Reading books and watching tutorials gave me the "why" — but I needed the "how" through hands-on practice.
To bridge that gap, I enrolled in a certification-focused course that offered:
- Lab environments for every exam topic
Task-based scenarios that mirrored the actual CKA exam
-
Mock exams to simulate time pressure and multi-tasking
-
Best practices for fast and efficient
kubectlusage
In particular, Mumshad Mannambeth’s CKA course stood out for its depth and structure. The interactive labs were incredibly close to real exam questions and helped reinforce troubleshooting skills in live cluster environments.
If you're planning to take the CKA, I highly recommend choosing a course that emphasizes hands-on labs — it's the single most effective way to build confidence and speed before exam day.
🔍 Pro Tip: Efficient Documentation Navigation
Yes, you get access to Kubernetes documentation during the exam, but searching smartly saves time.
- Use specific search terms:
- site:kubernetes.io create deployment
- site:kubernetes.io persistent volume reclaimPolicy
- Use keyboard search on page (Ctrl + F ):
- Quickly jump to what you need with queries like kind: Deployment, spec: containers, etc.
🧪 Simulate the Real Exam with Killer.sh
Once you feel confident with concepts and labs, test yourself with Killer.sh, the official exam simulator.
You get 2 full sessions, each valid for 36 hours
Each session includes 17 realistic and tricky practice questions
It tests your speed, accuracy, and stress handling under time pressure
Repeat the simulator until you consistently finish all questions within 2 hours.
💻 Don’t Ignore the Exam Setup
Here are some critical final-day tips:
✅ Test the PSI Secure Browser in advance — I never had issues, but many candidates report problems. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
✅ Check webcam, mic, and internet stability
✅ Familiarize yourself with the test UI — scrolling, tabs, switching between terminals
✅ Keep your ID ready and ensure your test environment meets the proctor’s requirements
⏳ Time Is Your Biggest Opponent
Even if you know the answers, time management is key.
Some tips:
- Don’t get stuck on a single question
- Flag questions for review if they need more time
- Knock out the easier questions first to build momentum
- Keep an eye on the question weights (not all are equal)
💪Final Thoughts – You’re More Ready Than You Think If you’ve:
➤ Built a solid foundation (Linux + Docker)
➤ Understood the core Kubernetes concepts
➤ Practiced using KodeKloud labs
➤ Completed Killer.sh sessions
➤ Navigated the docs efficiently
Preparing for the CKA exam has been both technically enriching and personally rewarding. It’s more than a certification — it’s a validation of hands-on skills and problem-solving under time pressure.
If you're planning to pursue it, a structured approach with consistent practice will absolutely get you there.
🔜 That’s all for now. See you in the next one!
