Introduction to load balancers
In this second section, we will discuss the basics between utilizing layer 7 and layer 4 load balancers. To understand the differences between the types of load balancers, it’s important to understand the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Understanding the different layers of the OSI model will help you to understand how different solutions handle incoming requests.
Understanding the OSI model
There are various approaches for exposing an application in Kubernetes, and you’ll frequently come across mentions of layer 7 or layer 4 load balancing. These terms indicate the positions they hold in the OSI model, with each layer providing a distinct functionality. Each component that operates in layer 7 will offer different capabilities compared to those at layer 4.
To begin, let’s look at a brief overview of the seven layers and a description of each. For this chapter, we are interested in the two highlighted sections...
