Lens

In this article, we will describe how to connect a Kubernetes cluster to Lens, a desktop application for managing clusters.

Lens Versions

Lens Desktop is available in three versions:

• Lens Personal (free version)
• Lens Pro (paid)
• Lens Pro Enterprise (paid, for large companies)

Creating a Lens ID

To use the free Lens version, go to the Lens ID creation form and create a Lens ID. It will have a subscription for the free version. 

If you already have a Lens ID, click Login with Lens ID, enter your credentials, and log in. The free license will be added to your Lens ID.

Installing Lens

1. Download the installer for your operating system from the official website and install it on your device.
2. Launch the application.
3. Select New to Lens if you don't have a Lens ID yet.

4. You'll be redirected to the Lens ID creation form. Enter your details and click Create Lens ID.

5. Verify your email address by clicking on a link sent to you. A confirmation form will open.
6. Enter your username and password and click Login.

After successful login, the Lens Desktop will open.

Connecting to the Cluster

You can save the configuration for connecting to the cluster in the default Lens folder or a custom one.

Using the Standard Folder

When using the standard folder (~/.kube or ~/.k8slens, depending on the OS), you should see the name of your cluster in the Catalog → Clusters section. You can also access it from the welcome menu that appears after successful authorization in Lens by selecting Browse Clusters in Catalog.

Using the Custom Folder

1. Create a folder named k8s_config in a location convenient for you (you can name the folder as you wish).

2. Download the configuration file (kubeconfig) from the dashboard of the created cluster and place it in the folder you just created.

3. In the Clusters section, click the + button in the lower right corner and then add the configuration file(s) or the entire folder with files for initialization.

4. Connect to the cluster by clicking on it.

You're all set! You are connected to the created Kubernetes cluster.

You can learn about cluster management through the Lens IDE in the official documentation.