Deployment Methods
Understand the available CARTO Self-Hosted deployment methods
CARTO Self-Hosted can run on a variety of platforms using a set of Docker images. The available deployment methods vary in complexity and scalability. There is no better or preferred method; it depends on your needs.
This section presents each deployment method, helps you decide which one fits your team, and points you to the matching deployment guide.
Choosing a deployment method — decide which method fits your team and infrastructure
Single Virtual Machine deployment — the simplest method (Kots), ideal for evaluation and small-scale deployments
Standard Orchestrated container deployment — UI-managed (Kots) production deployments on Kubernetes
Advanced Orchestrated container deployment — fully customizable (Helm) production deployments on Kubernetes
Deployment methods at a glance
Complexity
Low
Medium
High
Scalability
Limited
High
High
Customization
Basic
Moderate
Full
Management UI
Admin Console
Admin Console
CLI only
Best for
Evaluation, small-scale
Production, UI-managed
Production, advanced
Managing Kubernetes: Kots and Helm
KOTS (Kubernetes Off-The-Shelf) and Helm are both tools for managing Kubernetes deployments, but they serve different purposes depending on ease of use and customization requirements:
KOTS focuses on simplifying the deployment of pre-packaged Kubernetes applications, particularly for self-hosted environments. It includes features like built-in admin consoles, automated updates, and configuration management aimed at non-expert Kubernetes users. KOTS simplifies deploying CARTO Self-hosted by providing an Admin Console with key features such as:
Updates can be applied with a single click, streamlining maintenance.
Configuration changes are managed through a user-friendly UI with built-in versioning, ensuring easy tracking and rollbacks.
Support bundles can be generated instantly, simplifying troubleshooting.
Additionally, license synchronization is automated, reducing manual overhead and ensuring compliance effortlessly.
Helm is a package manager for Kubernetes, allowing users to define, install, and upgrade applications using charts (pre-configured Kubernetes resources). It excels at templating and managing app lifecycles in a declarative manner. Helm provides full control over advanced customizations of the CARTO Self-hosted deployment, allowing users to tailor deployments beyond the options available in the KOTS UI, making it ideal for complex, highly specific configurations.
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