Exam Details
The Linux Foundation · CKS
Prepare for CKS: Secure Kubernetes clusters through hardening, supply chain security, and runtime monitoring.
Overview
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FAQ
The CKS exam validates your ability to secure Kubernetes clusters during build, deployment, and runtime. This specialty-level, performance-based certification targets CKA-certified professionals who harden clusters, minimize microservice vulnerabilities, secure the software supply chain, and implement monitoring and runtime security. The exam is 100% practical with 15-16 performance-based tasks in 2 hours. You'll prove you can configure cluster security, implement Pod Security Standards, manage secrets, scan images, and detect threats in a live Kubernetes environment. As Kubernetes security becomes a top priority, CKS certified specialists who protect production clusters are in high demand.
You're a fit for CKS if you:
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| Domain | Weight | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| Cluster Setup | 15% | Secure cluster installation with kubeadm, configure TLS, etcd encryption, and network policies |
| Cluster Hardening | 15% | Implement RBAC, Pod Security Standards, admission controllers, and restrict access to Kubernetes API |
| System Hardening | 10% | Harden OS and host configurations, reduce kernel attack surface, and minimize host-level access |
| Minimize Microservice Vulnerabilities | 20% | Implement Pod Security Standards, manage secrets, use OPA/Gatekeeper policies, and sandbox containers |
| Supply Chain Security | 20% | Scan container images for vulnerabilities, sign images, verify signatures, and secure the CI/CD pipeline |
| Monitoring, Logging and Runtime Security | 20% | Implement Falco or similar runtime threat detection, configure audit logging, and perform behavioral analytics |
You're probably ready if you can:
You might need more prep if:
If this feels too advanced:
If you know the basics but want to build confidence:
The CKS is a performance-based, hands-on exam conducted in a live command-line environment. You are given 2 hours to complete approximately 15–20 realistic security tasks. There are no multiple-choice questions; you must configure network policies, harden binaries, and manage secrets directly on live clusters via the terminal.
The passing score for the CKS is 67%. Unlike some other IT certifications, it does not use a scaled 1000-point system. You earn points for each successfully completed task step. To build the speed and precision required for this hands-on format, ExamOS offers scenario-based practice quizzes that train the management-level logic and security principles required before you hit the lab.
The exam is updated frequently to include the latest Kubernetes security tools (like Falco, Trivy, and AppArmor). The weightings are:
Yes. The CKS is a restricted "Open Book" exam. During the test, you are permitted to access one additional browser tab to view official documentation for:
kubernetes.io/docs)falco.org/docs, aquasecurity.github.io/trivy/)kubernetes.io/blog)
You cannot use Google search or community forums like Stack Overflow.The standard registration fee is $395 USD. This price typically includes the exam voucher and one free retake. If you purchase the exam through a bundle with official training (LFS260), the price may vary. It is recommended to check for CNCF seasonal sales (like Cyber Monday) where discounts can reach 50% or more.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, you are granted one free retake. You must wait until your results are officially released (usually 24 hours) before you can schedule the retake. The second attempt must be completed within 12 months of the original purchase date.
The CKS certification is valid for 2 years. To maintain your status, you must retake and pass the current version of the CKS exam before your expiration date. Because security practices and Kubernetes versions change rapidly, there is no "continuing education" credit option for renewal.
You must hold a current, non-expired Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) certification to take the CKS exam. This is a strict technical prerequisite. The exam is intended for security-focused DevOps engineers and administrators responsible for protecting production-grade container environments.
The CKS is widely regarded as one of the most difficult and prestigious certifications in the cloud-native industry. It qualifies you for high-level roles such as DevSecOps Engineer, Kubernetes Security Lead, and Cloud Architect. As companies move toward "Zero Trust" architectures, the ability to prove you can secure a cluster from the OS level to the application layer makes you a high-value candidate in the enterprise market.
Once you have mastered Kubernetes security, you can further specialize or move into high-level architecture: