How I passed CKS in 2 Weeks

The Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) exam is a certification that validates one’s ability to design and implement secure Kubernetes clusters. The exam is challenging and requires significant preparation to pass. However, with proper planning and focus, it is possible to prepare for the CKS exam in just two weeks. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on how to prepare for the CKS exam in two weeks.

TL DR: Before taking the CKS test, you must have taken and passed the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) certification.

Since I have a full-time job, I used to get only ~1–2 hours on the weekdays and on the weekends I used to give ~4–6 hours. Remember that in my case I had already passed the CKAD and CKA exams before so I was aware of the exam environments and the clock ticks. Also, I knew many of the topics as I was using them in my day-to-day life.

1. Familiarize yourself with the exam format and topics: The first step in preparing for the CKS exam is to familiarize yourself with the exam format and topics. The exam consists of 15–20 questions (I got 16 questions) that need to be completed in two hours. The questions are purely hands-on. The exam covers various topics related to Kubernetes security, such as Kubernetes security primitives, Kubernetes security features, cluster hardening, and security policies.
2. Review the Kubernetes documentation: Kubernetes documentation is an excellent resource for learning about Kubernetes security. It provides detailed information about Kubernetes security features, security best practices, and configuration options. Spend some time reviewing Kubernetes documentation to ensure that you understand the security features and best practices. You can use the findoption in the browsers to look for fields and attributes I used the hack to save a lot of time, but for this, you need to know what you want to look for.
3. Take online mock tests and practice exams: Online courses and practice exams are an excellent way to prepare for the CKS exam. There are various online courses available that cover the CKS exam topics in detail. Additionally, there are many practice exams available that simulate the actual exam environment. Taking practice exams will help you identify areas where you need to focus more and give you a better understanding of the exam format. I used the killer.sh mock test and the CKS scenarios
4. Create a study plan and schedule: Creating a study plan and schedule will help you stay focused and organized during your CKS exam preparation. Plan your study sessions and allocate specific time slots for reviewing exam topics, taking practice exams, and participating in study groups or discussion forums.
5. Focus on exam topics where you need improvement: Identify areas where you need improvement and focus on those topics during your study sessions. Spend more time reviewing topics that you find challenging and less time on topics that you already know well.
6. Take breaks and rest: Taking breaks and rest is essential for maintaining focus and productivity during your CKS exam preparation. Take regular breaks to ensure that you get enough sleep and exercise to keep your mind and body healthy.

Exam Curriculum

Cluster Setup — 10%

1. Use Network security policies to restrict cluster level access
2. Use CIS benchmark to review the security configuration of Kubernetes components (etcd, kubelet, kubedns, kubeapi)
3. Properly set up Ingress objects with security control
4. Protect node metadata and endpoints
5. Minimize use of, and access to, GUI elements
6. Verify platform binaries before deploying

Cluster Hardening — 15%

1. Restrict access to Kubernetes API
2. Use Role Based Access Controls to minimize exposure
3. Exercise caution in using service accounts e.g. disable defaults, minimize permissions on newly created ones
4. Update Kubernetes frequently

System Hardening — 15%

1. Minimize host OS footprint (reduce attack surface)
2. Minimize IAM roles
3. Minimize external access to the network
4. Appropriately use kernel hardening tools such as AppArmor, seccomp

Minimize Microservice Vulnerabilities — 20%

1. Setup appropriate OS level security domains
2. Manage Kubernetes secrets
3. Use container runtime sandboxes in multi-tenant environments (e.g. gvisor, kata containers)
4. Implement pod to pod encryption by use of mTLS

Supply Chain Security — 20%

1. Minimize base image footprint
2. Secure your supply chain: whitelist allowed registries, sign and validate images
3. Use static analysis of user workloads (e.g. Kubernetes resources, Docker files)
4. Scan images for known vulnerabilities (trivy)

Monitoring, Logging, and Runtime Security — 20%

1. Perform behavioral analytics of syscall processes and file activities at the host and container level to detect malicious activities (falco)
2. Detect threats within physical infrastructure, apps, networks, data, users and workloads
3. Detect all phases of attack regardless of where it occurs and how it spreads
4. Perform deep analytical investigation and identification of bad actors within the environment
5. Ensure immutability of containers at runtime
6. Use Audit Logs to monitor access.

Conclusion

Preparing for the CKS exam in two weeks requires dedication, focus, and proper planning. By following the tips discussed in this article, you can increase your chances of passing the CKS exam and earning the certification. I know CKS is one of the toughest exam and you need patience for that. Remember to stay calm and confident during the exam, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. I am reachable here. Good luck!