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Overview

Docker Desktop includes a local Kubernetes cluster perfect for development and testing. Connect it to Qovery to develop and test applications locally before deploying to cloud environments.

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Supported Local Kubernetes

Docker Desktop

Mac, Windows, Linux - Built-in Kubernetes

Minikube

Lightweight K8s - Cross-platform

Kind

K8s in Docker - Fast, lightweight

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Docker Desktop Setup

1

Enable Kubernetes

  1. Open Docker Desktop
  2. Settings → Kubernetes
  3. Check “Enable Kubernetes”
  4. Click “Apply & Restart”
  5. Wait for Kubernetes to start (green icon)
2

Verify Installation

kubectl cluster-info
kubectl get nodes
3

Install Nginx Ingress

kubectl apply -f https://raw.githubusercontent.com/kubernetes/ingress-nginx/main/deploy/static/provider/cloud/deploy.yaml
4

Connect to Qovery

Follow BYOK setup to connect local cluster

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Use Cases

  • Local Development: Develop and test locally
  • CI/CD Testing: Ephemeral clusters in pipelines
  • Learning: Safe environment for experimentation
  • Preview Environments: Test before cloud deployment

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Limitations

Local Kubernetes is NOT for production:
  • Single node (no high availability)
  • Limited resources
  • Loses data on restart
  • Performance limitations

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Resource Requirements

Minimum: 4 GB RAM, 2 CPUs, 20 GB disk Recommended: 8 GB RAM, 4 CPUs, 50 GB disk Configure in Docker Desktop Settings → Resources

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Next Steps

Deploy First App

Deploy your first application locally

BYOK Setup

Connect local cluster to Qovery

Cloud Deployment

Move to cloud when ready

Local Installation

Detailed local setup guide