Towards a Standardized Identity-based Authorization in Kubernetes

This conference talk explores the critical need for standardized identity-based authorization in Kubernetes environments. Learn how east-west traffic authorization, essential for securing modern Kubernetes workloads, currently suffers from ecosystem fragmentation due to varying policy enforcement implementations. Discover the potential transition from traditional network-based authorization to identity-based approaches that promise enhanced security and scalability. The speakers, Keith Mattix from Microsoft and Lior Lieberman from Google, examine fundamental questions about what constitutes an "identity" in Kubernetes and present their collaborative exploration of standardization approaches. Gain insights into the challenges, potential solutions, and viable paths forward for implementing consistent identity-driven authorization across Kubernetes, particularly in relation to the Gateway API and Network Policy subprojects. This 34-minute CNCF presentation offers valuable perspective for those interested in shaping the future of Kubernetes security architecture.