no endpoints available for service \"kubernetes-dashboard\"

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06-10-2024

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"No Endpoints Available" for Kubernetes Dashboard: Troubleshooting Guide

Problem: You're trying to access the Kubernetes Dashboard but encounter the dreaded "No endpoints available" error. This message indicates that the dashboard can't connect to the Kubernetes API server, leaving you unable to manage your cluster.

Rephrasing: Imagine trying to use a remote control to change channels on your TV, but the signal won't connect. This is similar to the "No endpoints available" error for the Kubernetes dashboard - it's trying to connect to the Kubernetes API server, but the connection is broken.

Scenario and Code:

Let's consider a common scenario:

1. You've installed the Kubernetes Dashboard using the standard method:

   kubectl apply -f https://raw.githubusercontent.com/kubernetes/dashboard/v2.10.1/aio/deploy/recommended.yaml
   

2. You've exposed the dashboard service through a NodePort or LoadBalancer:

   apiVersion: v1
   kind: Service
   metadata:
     name: kubernetes-dashboard
   spec:
     type: NodePort # or LoadBalancer
     ports:
     - port: 80
       targetPort: 8443
     selector:
       k8s-app: kubernetes-dashboard
   

3. You've accessed the dashboard URL, but instead of the dashboard, you see "No endpoints available".

Analysis and Clarification:

This error usually stems from one of the following issues:

• Missing Service Account: The Kubernetes Dashboard needs specific permissions to access the API server. It uses a service account to achieve this.
• Network Connectivity: The dashboard might be unable to reach the Kubernetes API server due to network restrictions or misconfiguration.
• Incorrect Namespace: The dashboard service and the service account must reside in the same namespace for proper communication.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Verify Service Account and Permissions:

   • Check if the kubernetes-dashboard service account exists in your namespace. You can use kubectl get serviceaccount kubernetes-dashboard -n <namespace>
   • Ensure the service account has the necessary permissions. You can use kubectl describe serviceaccount kubernetes-dashboard -n <namespace> to check the role bindings. If the role binding is missing or incomplete, you'll need to create or edit it using kubectl create/edit rolebinding.

2. Check Network Connectivity:

   • Verify the Kubernetes API server is accessible: Use kubectl cluster-info to check if the API server URL is reachable.
   • Examine firewall rules: Ensure there are no blocking firewall rules on the node where the dashboard is running or the API server is hosted.
   • Inspect network configuration: Check for misconfigurations in your networking setup, especially if you're using a custom network plugin.

3. Confirm Correct Namespace:

   • Double-check that the kubernetes-dashboard service and the service account are deployed in the same namespace.

Additional Value:

• Security Best Practices: For improved security, consider using a more restrictive role binding for the kubernetes-dashboard service account, granting only the necessary permissions for the dashboard to function.
• Debugging Techniques: You can use kubectl logs -f <pod-name> -n <namespace> to view the logs of the dashboard pod to obtain further information about the error.

Conclusion:

The "No endpoints available" error for the Kubernetes Dashboard can be frustrating, but with careful troubleshooting, you can identify and resolve the underlying issue. By verifying the service account, network connectivity, and namespace, you can bring your Kubernetes Dashboard back online and regain control of your cluster.

References:

• Kubernetes Dashboard Documentation
• Kubernetes Service Accounts