SOFTWARE LICENSE GUIDE
Kubernetes
Kubernetes is an open-source system for automating deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications. It is licensed under the Apache License 2.0.
What it does
It orchestrates containerized workloads and services, facilitating declarative configuration, automation, and management of applications at scale.
Who it may suit
Organizations and developers deploying and managing containerized applications at scale, requiring robust orchestration, scaling, and self-healing capabilities.
Free tier and license
As fully open-source software, the core Kubernetes project is free to use.
Limitations to check
The core Kubernetes project is open source. Users should be aware that commercial distributions, managed services, or enterprise support offerings built on Kubernetes may have their own licensing and pricing models.
Licensing notes
Kubernetes is fully open-source software, managed by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation and licensed under the Apache License 2.0. This permits free commercial and non-commercial use.
Verification details
Last licensing verification recorded: 2026-10-28.
Directory record last updated: 2026-08-19. These are separate dates: a record update does not necessarily mean the publisher's terms changed.
AI-assisted summaries may be incomplete or outdated. Confirm licensing, pricing, and commercial-use rights in the official sources before making a business decision.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Kubernetes for commercial purposes?
Yes, Kubernetes is open-source under the Apache License 2.0, allowing free commercial and non-commercial use.
Is there a cost to use Kubernetes?
The core Kubernetes software is free and open-source. Commercial distributions, managed services, or support may have associated costs.
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