CNCF / Linux Foundation · Professional Certification · Foundational
Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA)
Crydd Score 63
Demand Growing
Career Value Moderate
Recognition Strong
KCNA at a glance
- Provider
- CNCF / Linux Foundation
- Credential type
- Professional Certification
- Exam required
- Yes
- Category
- DevOps & Platform
- Level
- Foundational
- Cost
- $250 (includes one retake)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Time to earn
- 1–2 months
- Validity
- 2 years
- Format
- Online proctored multiple-choice exam, 90 minutes
- Prerequisites
- None
What is KCNA?
The CNCF's entry-level certification: Kubernetes fundamentals, container orchestration, cloud-native architecture, observability and application delivery, in a 90-minute multiple-choice exam.
Skills it covers
- Kubernetes fundamentals
- Cloud-native architecture
- Container orchestration basics
Is KCNA worth it? The Crydd Verdict
CS 63Choose it if
You are new to Kubernetes and cloud native, or work near platform teams, and want a structured grounding.
Consider alternatives if
You already use Kubernetes: go straight to the CKA or CKAD, which employers value far more.
Why we say so
An affordable introduction from the organisation that runs Kubernetes; it proves knowledge, not hands-on skill.
Market demand
Rarely a hiring requirement; it is a stepping stone to the CKA and CKAD.
Where KCNA takes you
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
Career roadmaps show where this certification fits in each path. See the roadmaps.
Related certifications
Curated connections from the catalog — each labelled with how it relates to KCNA, so you know why it’s here.
Careers KCNA leads to
The professional paths this certification genuinely serves — browse every relevant credential for each.
A sensible order
Where KCNA sits on the path — build up, then step on.
Recommended next after KCNA
A step up on a shared path
