Kubernetes offers several scalability options to handle varying application loads. The scenario described involves adding another pod replica in response to increased load, which is a form of horizontal scaling. Here's a detailed explanation:
Horizontal Scaling:
Definition: Horizontal scaling, also known as scaling out, involves adding more instances (pods) to distribute the load and increase capacity.
Implementation in Kubernetes: Kubernetes uses controllers like the Horizontal Pod Autoscaler (HPA) to automatically adjust the number of pod replicas based on observed CPU utilization or other select metrics.
Benefits:
Load Distribution: By adding more pod replicas, the load is evenly distributed, reducing the risk of any single pod being overwhelmed.
Fault Tolerance: Horizontal scaling enhances fault tolerance and availability, as multiple pod replicas can handle requests if one fails.
Automatic Scaling:
Kubernetes Controller: The HPA continuously monitors the application load and adjusts the number of pod replicas accordingly, ensuring optimal performance.
Kubernetes Documentation: Horizontal Pod Autoscaling
Kubernetes Scalability: Understanding Kubernetes Scaling