This course teaches you how to strengthen your cluster’s underlying systems by reducing the host operating system’s attack surface. You’ll learn host hardening, how to remove unnecessary services, and set up logging and access controls. You'll cover network security, host firewalls, and kernel hardening with tools like SecComp and AppArmor. You’ll also focus on identity and access management, applying least privilege and understanding RBAC risks. Each lesson provides practical strategies to make your Kubernetes environments more secure and prepare you for the CKS exam.
Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS): Unit 4
This Labor Day, enjoy $120 off Coursera Plus. Unlock access to 10,000+ programs. Save today.
Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS): Unit 4
This course is part of Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) Specialization
Instructor: Pearson
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
4 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Minimize host operating system and network exposure to reduce Kubernetes attack surfaces.
Harden the kernel using SecComp, AppArmor, and rigorous security testing.
Implement least privilege identity and access management for both host and cloud environments.
Configure and validate host firewalls to secure node network access.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Recently updated!
August 2025
Assessments
4 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS) Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
There is 1 module in this course
In this module, you’ll learn strategies to strengthen the underlying systems that support Kubernetes. You’ll focus on minimizing the host operating system footprint, implementing pod security standards, reducing external network access, hardening the kernel, and optimizing identity and access management roles. By applying these techniques, you’ll build a resilient and secure Kubernetes infrastructure, making it much more difficult for attackers to compromise your system.
What's included
22 videos4 assignments
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Explore more from Security
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.
More questions
Financial aid available,