Modernizing Infrastructure with VMware Tanzu Kubernetes Grid: A Case Study

The implementation of VMware Tanzu Kubernetes Grid (TKGm 1.6) can quickly and effectively streamline deployments and enhance scalability. However, navigating complex security and operational requirements during adoption can require significant customization, as well as technology expertise.

When an energy and natural gas company serving over 4 million customers sought TKG implementation, VMware by Broadcom hand-selected Capstone IT Solutions for the engagement.

As a Broadcom Expert Advantage Partner and Tanzu Partner of the Year, Capstone IT Solutions has consistently demonstrated its expertise in Kubernetes, Tanzu, and application modernization. This VMware case study exemplifies the company’s excellence and innovation in the field.

The Objectives

Achieving a Portable, Containerized Application Environment

The client partnered with Capstone IT Solutions to modernize its infrastructure by implementing VMware’s Tanzu Kubernetes Grid (TKG). This initiative focused on streamlining business processes and enabling a containerized application environment—all while enhancing security and operations.

The Challenge

Meeting Stringent Security and Operational Standards

As part of a highly regulated industry, the client required its infrastructure to meet strict security and operational standards. Through conversations with the client, Capstone IT Solutions recognized the necessity of custom integrations and configurations to fulfill these demands.

The Tactics

Security Customizations

• Utilize custom certificates for all internet-accessing components to comply with the customer’s security tools.
• Configure Kubernetes auditing to balance robust security requirements and Splunk’s data capacity.
• Implement container image CVE scanning to meet unique security benchmarks.

Infrastructure Adjustments

• Apply Carvel ytt overlays to customize Kubernetes node configurations with approved NTP servers.
• Enhance the Kubernetes CSI (Container Storage Interface) to integrate with the customer’s commercial backup solution.
• Enable Kubernetes etcd encryption to ensure data security at rest.

Networking Innovations

• Customize NSX Advanced Load Balancer (ALB) to securely adapt to the client’s topology.
• Configure Kubernetes External DNS to integrate seamlessly with Infoblox DNS.
• Optimize TKG/Kubernetes ingress settings to align with specific security requirements.

Registry & Application Management

• Tailor Harbor registry to support image caching and pull-through requirements.
• Design containerized application deployment strategies to meet business goals while adhering to security protocols.

Implementation

The Critical Role of Capstone IT Solutions

After completing the comprehensive strategy, Capstone IT Solutions proved instrumental in deploying and customizing VMware TKG while ensuring compliance. However, the company didn’t stop there. Capstone IT Solutions delivered long-lasting value to the client by providing:

• Training & Mentorship: Hands-on training and mentoring for the client’s operations staff to build their expertise in managing TKG and Kubernetes environments.
• Documentation: A thorough record of the entire Tanzu deployment, including all customizations, decision points, and best practices for ongoing management.
• Strategic Planning: A comprehensive plan for end-to-end application deployment within the Tanzu ecosystem, developed in partnership with the client’s platform engineers.

The Outcome

Optimal Scalability & Security

The project was a success. The client’s leadership expressed satisfaction with the deployment, noting that all goals were achieved and security requirements met. The customized Tanzu environment equipped the natural gas company with a robust, scalable platform to support their modernization efforts.

Achieve Modernized Infrastructure with Expertise

Leveraging containerized infrastructure has become a critical strategy for businesses seeking agility and efficiency. However, many companies face significant challenges when transitioning from traditional VMs to containerized infrastructure.

Capstone IT Solutions’ partnership with the natural gas company demonstrates the value of deep technical expertise and a tailored approach to solving complex infrastructure challenges. This project not only modernized the client’s IT environment but also empowered the client’s team to sustain and expand on the deployment’s success in the future.

With this VMware case study, Capstone IT Solutions continues its proven track record of delivering custom, high-quality solutions tailored to complex client requirements.

Partner with Capstone IT Solutions to accelerate your IT modernization, regardless of complexity.