Linux Foundation and CNCF

KCSA Security Associate

Kubernetes and Cloud Native Security Associate

Proves basic knowledge of security in Kubernetes and cloud native environments, such as the basic security configuration of clusters.

Matching training How to take the exam
Scope
90 min
Validity
2 Jahre
Prerequisite
None
Where
Online, proctored

Kubernetes certifications

  1. Entry KCNA Cloud Native Associate
  2. you are here KCSA Security Associate
  3. Practice CKA Administrator
  4. Practice CKAD Application Developer
  5. requires CKA CKS Security Specialist

No linear sequence: choose by your role. Only CKS requires a passed CKA.

who_its_for

Who KCSA is for

  • Newcomers to cloud native security
  • Everyone preparing for the CKS later on
exam

Exam topics

  • Kubernetes Cluster Component Security22 %
  • Kubernetes Security Fundamentals22 %
  • Kubernetes Threat Model16 %
  • Platform Security16 %
  • Overview of Cloud Native Security14 %
  • Compliance and Security Frameworks10 %

Share of each topic in the exam according to Linux Foundation.

process

How to get KCSA

  1. Review the exam domains. The weighting shows what matters.
  2. Prepare. With a course at one of our partners or through self-study.
  3. Buy the exam from the Linux Foundation. You then have 12 months to schedule and take it.
  4. Take it online. Proctored. One retake is included.
trainings

Training for preparation

There is currently no course for KCSA.

Ask us: we will check with our training partners what is possible.

Request training All Kubernetes courses

Information according to training.linuxfoundation.org, as of October 2026. KCSA is a trademark of The Linux Foundation.