“Navigating Kubernetes Seas: Argo CD vs. Argo CD Image Updater”

In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Argo CD and its trusty companion, Argo CD Image Updater. Buckle up for a journey through declarative deployments, Git-Ops magic, and automated image updates! ??

What is Argo CD Image Updater?

Argo CD Image Updater is a powerful tool that automatically updates the container images of Kubernetes workloads managed by Argo CD. It ensures that your applications stay up-to-date with the latest image versions, making your deployments smoother and more efficient.

Key Features:

1. Flexible Update Strategies:

These are different ways to update the software running in your Kubernetes cluster. Think of it like updating apps on your phone.

2. Semver (Semantic Versioning):

Update to the highest allowed version based on specific rules. Imagine you have an app, and it automatically updates to the newest version that won’t break anything.

3. Latest:

Update to the most recently created version. Similar to getting the latest version of a news article.

4. Name:

Update to the last version in an alphabetically sorted list. Like choosing the last book on a library shelf.

5. Digest:

Update to the most recently pushed version of a mutable (changeable) tag.Think of it like getting the freshest loaf of bread at the bakery.

6. Registry Support:

Works well with popular places where software is stored (like app stores for your phone).Even works with private places where only certain people can access the software.

7. Git Integration:

Can save changes back to the place where you keep your code (like saving a document after editing it).

8. Parallel Updates:

Can update many things at once, like updating all your apps together.Imagine updating all your social media apps simultaneously.

9. Advanced Features:

Supports extra things like syncing with Windows, controlling who can make changes, and more. Like having special features in a high-tech gadget.

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Let's now explore the differences between Argo CD and Argo CD Image Updater using a real-world example:

Scenario: Deploying a Microservice Application

Argo CD

1. Purpose :-

• Argo CD is a declarative, Git-Ops continuous delivery tool for Kubernetes. It manages application deployments across multiple clusters.
• Application Management: Define applications declaratively using Git repositories. Sync desired state with actual state in the cluster.
• Changes made through Git commits.
• Argo CD ensures cluster state matches Git repository.
• Supports rollbacks to previous versions.
• CRDs: Uses CRDs to define applications, repositories, etc.
• Web UI and CLI: Provides web-based UI and CLI for managing applications.

Argo CD Image Updater:-

1. Argo CD Image Updater automates updating container images in Kubernetes deployments managed by Argo CD.
2. Polls container registry for new image versions. Updates applications with latest image tags.
3. Leverages annotations on Argo CD Application resources.
4. Supports semver, latest, name, digest strategies.
5. Parallel updates, custom pull secrets, etc.

Real-World Example

1. Setup:

• Deploy Argo CD and Argo CD Image Updater in a Kubernetes cluster.
• Create a microservice application with three Docker images (frontend, backend, database).

1. Workflow:

• Argo CD Image Updater watches container registries.
• When a new image version is available (e.g., frontend:v2), it commits an override file in your repository.
• Argo CD updates the application with the new image.

Check version :-

argocd-image-updater version        

Run Argo CD Image Updater:

argocd-image-updater run --argocd-auth-token <token>        

Conclusion

Argo CD manages application deployments, while Argo CD Image Updater automates image updates. Together, they provide a powerful solution for Kubernetes continuous delivery. Share your success stories on LinkedIn! ??