Feature: gRPC Load Balancing Design in Kubernetes Environment #2195
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go
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kind/feature
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Is this feature request related to a problem?
✅ Yes
Problem Description
Abstract:
This document outlines a gRPC load balancing solution tailored for Kubernetes, addressing the limitations of traditional Kubernetes Service-based load balancing for long-lived HTTP/2 connections typical of gRPC traffic. The design includes both client-side and server-side strategies to ensure efficient and dynamic load distribution across gRPC services.
Solution Description
Introduction:
Kubernetes Services typically operate at the network's fourth layer, utilizing kube-proxy for basic load balancing. However, due to gRPC's reliance on long-lived HTTP/2 connections, such a method leads to uneven load distribution, where all traffic might end up at a single pod. This necessitates a shift from connection-level to request-level balancing.
Design Challenges and Solutions:
Client-Side Load Balancing:
pick_first
andround_robin
are used. Theround_robin
policy distributes requests evenly across all available service IPs.Server-Side Load Balancing:
Handling Kubernetes API with Kuberesolver:
kuberesolver
, is used. This resolver directly interacts with Kubernetes API to monitor and update endpoint changes.Benefits
Conclusion:
This design offers a robust solution for gRPC load balancing within Kubernetes, enhancing the traditional service discovery and load distribution mechanisms to effectively manage the unique challenges posed by gRPC's long-lived connections and HTTP/2 protocol.
Further Reading:
Appendix:
Potential Drawbacks
No response
Additional Information
No response
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