Sign in into the **Google Cloud Platform**

To create a new project for the Kubernetes Project, click on the **in28minutes project** dropdown on the left side

**Select a project** wizard will open, on the top right corner click on the **NEW PROJECT** button

**New Project** wizard will open, give the **Project name** as "**My Kubernetes Project**" and click on the **CREATE** button

**Why is it beneficial to create a new project specifically for Kubernetes?**

Creating a new project specifically for Kubernetes allows you to perform Kubernetes configurations and practice hands-on. Instead of deleting individual instances, services, or versions within Kubernetes, you can simply delete the entire project. This approach helps save costs and ensures that no residual resources are left behind. If you miss terminating any resources, they will be deleted along with the project.

Click on the **Notifications icon** on the top right side and click on the **SELECT PROJECT** button

Now you are in the **My Kubernetes Project**, type "**Kubernetes Engine"** in the search bar and click on the **Kubernetes Engine** option

**What is Kubernetes Engine?**\
\
Kubernetes Engine, also known as Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE), is a managed service in Google Cloud Platform (GCP) that allows you to run and manage containerized applications using Kubernetes. GKE automates tasks such as deployment, scaling, and management of container clusters, providing a powerful and flexible environment for orchestrating containers. It integrates with other GCP services, ensuring high availability, security, and scalability for your applications.

**Kubernetes Engine API** wizard will open, click on the **ENABLE** button

**Note:** Enabling the API successfully will take some time.

**What is Kubernetes Engine API?**\
\
The **Kubernetes Engine API** in Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is a set of RESTful API endpoints that allow you to interact programmatically with Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE). It provides capabilities for managing Kubernetes clusters, including creating, updating, deleting, and retrieving cluster information. The API enables the automation of cluster operations and integration with other tools and services, facilitating efficient management and orchestration of containerized applications.

After the API is successfully enabled the **Kubernetes Engine** page will open, click on the **Clusters** from the left bar

**What are Clusters?**\
\
In Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) and Kubernetes, a **cluster** is a group of interconnected nodes that work together to run containerized applications. It comprises a master node that manages the control plane and orchestrates tasks, and worker nodes that execute the containers and services. Clusters enable efficient scaling, deployment, and management of applications, ensuring high availability and optimal resource use.

**Kubernetes clusters** wizard will open, click on the **CREATE** button on the top left side

**Welcome to the new cluster creator** wizard will open, click on the **LETS GET STARED** button

**Create an Autopilot cluster** wizard will open, here you can continue creating the Autopilot cluster. But for the lab, we will be creating the Standard cluster

**Note:** By default, the Kubernetes cluster creation will redirect you to the Autopilot cluster

Click on the **SWITCH ON THE STANDARD CLUSTER** button on the top right side

**What is a Standard Cluster?**\
\
A **Standard Cluster** in Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) is a type of Kubernetes cluster with a predefined configuration for general-purpose use. It provides a managed environment with automated upgrades, monitoring, and scaling. Standard Clusters include a control plane and multiple worker nodes, supporting a wide range of applications and workloads. They are designed for flexibility, allowing users to customize node types, sizes, and configurations based on their specific needs.

**Switch from Autopilot to Standard** wizard will open, click on the **SWITCH TO STANDARD CLUSTER** button

**Create a Kubernetes cluster** wizard will open, give the Name as - "**my-cluster**"

Scroll to the **Location type** section and select the option **Zonal**

Google Cloud

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of creating a GKE Cluster using Kubernetes.

Kubernetes Journey - Creating a GKE Cluster