Screenshot from the article

Helm is the package manager for Kubernetes, making it easier to define, install, and manage Kubernetes applications. It allows you to bundle applications into Helm charts, simplifying deployment and version control.

Why Use Helm in Kubernetes?

  • Simplifies Deployments: Automates the installation of complex applications.
  • Version Control: Tracks changes with chart versions.
  • Reusability: Helm charts can be shared and reused across environments.
  • Parameterization: Allows dynamic configuration through values.yaml.

Installing Helm

On Linux/macOS:

curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/helm/helm/main/scripts/get-helm-3 | bash

On Windows (Using Chocolatey):

choco install kubernetes-helm

Verify Installation:

helm version

Deploying a Sample Application with Helm on AWS EKS

Step 1: Create an EKS Cluster

Use Terraform or eksctl:

eksctl create cluster --name my-cluster --region us-east-1 --nodegroup-name my-nodes --nodes 2

Step 2: Add a Helm Repository

helm repo add bitnami https://charts.bitnami.com/bitnami
helm repo update

Step 3: Deploy an Nginx Application

helm install my-nginx bitnami/nginx

Check deployment:

kubectl get pods

Step 4: Expose the Application

kubectl get svc my-nginx

If using LoadBalancer, get the external IP:

dig +short my-nginx.example.com

Step 5: Upgrade and Rollback

Modify values in values.yaml, then upgrade:

helm upgrade my-nginx bitnami/nginx -f values.yaml

Rollback if needed:

helm rollback my-nginx 1

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I list all installed Helm releases?

helm list

Q2: How do I delete a Helm release?

helm uninstall my-nginx

Q3: How do I inspect a Helm chart before installing?

helm show values bitnami/nginx

Q4: How do I create a custom Helm chart?

helm create my-chart

Q5: How do I store Helm releases in a private repository?

Use Helm ChartMuseum or Harbor:

helm push my-chart oci://my-registry.example.com

Conclusion

Helm streamlines Kubernetes application deployment and management, making it a must-have for DevOps teams. In this guide, we covered:

✅ Installing Helm

✅ Deploying applications using Helm on AWS EKS

✅ Managing Helm releases with upgrades and rollbacks

✅ Frequently asked questions and best practices

Mastering Helm will elevate your Kubernetes expertise! 🚀

📢 Have questions or feedback? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Twitter/X@spysood!

Originally published on Medium.