Kubernetes containers drive digitization

Applications of all kinds are increasingly relying on containers using Kubernetes on the infrastructure side in the digitalization era. Kubernetes also supports container apps advantageously in cluster environments, whether using physical or virtual machines.

But not only that: Kubernetes also represents a kind of anchor point when it comes to implementing and operating a modern container-centric infrastructure. And it does so with a much higher degree of flexibility than is the case in a rather rigid host-centric infrastructure. Moreover, Kubernetes can be deployed in virtually all operational concepts. On-premises as well as in the cloud, in the hybrid cloud or in edge computing.

Added value through ranchers

Through the acquisition of the US company Rancher Labs, which was initiated in July of last year and has since been completed, Suse activities in the area of containers with Kubernetes are experiencing an additional boost. The bottom line is that by using the Rancher Kubernetes container management platform, companies can realize digitization projects faster, better and more cost-effective or more beneficial on the basis of state-of-the-art technologies, regardless of the selected operating concept and regardless of the server size classes used.

Suse is defined by its 28-year history as well as its commitment to open source innovation and stands for mission-critical applications and systems. In March 2019, Suse became independent by spinning off the company, previously a relatively separate part of Micro Focus, from its parent company. The acquisition of Rancher is the first step in Suse's inorganic growth strategy since its transition to a fully independent software company.

Like Suse, Rancher focuses on open source solutions. Rancher's Kubernetes container management platform is in use over 37,000 times worldwide. Amazon AWS, T-Systems or Dell, for example, use Rancher. And like Suse, Rancher prefers an "open" open source approach. This means, for example, that Rancher will continue to run in conjunction with other Linux operating systems or on various public cloud platforms even after the Suse acquisition.

It is important that enterprise concerns are taken into account when using Kubernetes containers, such as stability, scalability or security - along with support. For example, SAP customers who use SAP Data Hub/SAP Data Intelligence and rely on Suse solutions can rely on this. For example, the recommended operating system platform Suse Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) for SAP Applications.

SAP Container Solutions

Rancher Labs' Kubernetes container management platform extends Sue's container strategy. This benefits enterprises in a sustainable way. This includes new ways to ensure flexible, simplified and automated ways to deliver and control small-scale services using Kubernetes containers in the enterprise environment.

Small-scale application services, so-called microservices, have experienced a real boom in the past year and the end of the line is far from in sight.

The bottom line is that it makes no difference which systems are used in the form of a container solution. Against this background, it can be assumed that a large number of SAP container solutions will be provided sooner or later - also in the application environment.