Kubernetes abstractions that simplify deployment can complicate debugging. Understanding how to investigate pod failures, networking issues, and resource constraints enables faster problem resolution.
Pod Debugging
kubectl describe pod reveals events and conditions. kubectl logs shows container output. kubectl exec enables interactive debugging. Ephemeral containers debug running pods without modification.
- Check pod events with kubectl describe for startup failures
- View logs with kubectl logs including previous container instances
- Use kubectl exec for interactive debugging in running containers
- Debug CrashLoopBackOff by examining logs and events
- Deploy ephemeral debug containers for additional tooling
Network Debugging
Service endpoints show which pods receive traffic. kubectl port-forward tests service connectivity. Network policies may block expected traffic. DNS resolution issues prevent service discovery.