Network Policies & CNI

Learn why Kubernetes clusters are open by default, enabling all pods to communicate freely. Understand the flat network model, CNI plugins, and NetworkPolicy objects.

Learn Kubernetes NetworkPolicy fundamentals. Configure ingress/egress firewall rules for pods using labels, from open to targeted policies.

Understand the Kubernetes network model: a flat, NAT-free network across pod, Service, and node IPs. Learn its four requirements and key concepts.

Adopt a default-deny NetworkPolicy stance in Kubernetes: block all ingress and egress per namespace, then allow-list only required traffic paths and DNS.

Learn best practices for Kubernetes NetworkPolicies, including how to confirm CNI enforcement, establish a default-deny floor, and roll out policies safely.

A single-page roundup of every highlight bullet from the 7 pages in the Network Policies & CNI section, grouped by source page so you can scan all 40 takeaways without opening each article individually.