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Technology glossary

What Is EKS in AWS?

Amazon EKS is AWS's managed service for running Kubernetes clusters.

Published Oct 23, 2026Reviewed Oct 23, 20264 min read
Written by Daniel BrooksTechnology Glossary WriterDaniel Brooks writes technology explainers covering APIs, software systems, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, databases, web platforms, and product vocabulary.Reviewed by Sophia CarterTechnology ReviewerSophia Carter reviews technology glossary pages for developer accuracy, software architecture context, infrastructure clarity, and practical examples.Fact CheckedTheForBiz Editorial DeskTheForBiz Editorial Desk checks definitions, examples, dates, statistics, source references, and update notes before publication or major revisions.
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Amazon EKS definition showing a managed Kubernetes control plane and worker nodes

In simple words

EKS means Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service. AWS runs and maintains the Kubernetes control plane. You choose how the application workloads run and remain responsible for the parts of the cluster and applications that fall on the customer side of the shared responsibility model.

How it works

What does EKS manage?

A Kubernetes cluster has a control plane that schedules and monitors workloads and a data plane where containers run. Amazon EKS provisions, scales, patches, and monitors the control plane across multiple AWS Availability Zones. AWS also replaces unhealthy control-plane nodes.

Workloads can run through EKS Auto Mode, EC2-based node groups, AWS Fargate, or supported hybrid infrastructure. The responsibility boundary changes with the compute option. Teams still need to manage application code, container images, access, data, observability, network policies, and other customer-controlled configuration.

Key distinction

EKS vs Kubernetes

Kubernetes is the open-source container orchestration system. Amazon EKS is an AWS service that runs conformant Kubernetes and manages its control plane. EKS supports standard Kubernetes APIs and common ecosystem tools, but it adds an AWS-managed operating layer and integrations.

Common uses

When is EKS used?

  • Running containerized web applications, APIs, microservices, and batch workloads.
  • Building a shared Kubernetes platform for multiple product teams.
  • Using standard Kubernetes deployment patterns with AWS identity, networking, load balancing, storage, and logging services.
  • Connecting supported on-premises or edge machines through EKS Hybrid Nodes.
KEEP EXPLORING

Related EKS knowledge

Complete Amazon EKS guide →Cloud Computing glossary →Kubernetes Platform →Availability Zone →
COMMON QUESTIONS

EKS FAQs

What is EKS in AWS?

EKS is Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service. It is AWS's managed Kubernetes service for deploying and operating Kubernetes clusters.

What does EKS manage?

Amazon EKS provisions, scales, patches, and monitors the Kubernetes control plane. Your responsibilities depend on whether you use Auto Mode, managed node groups, Fargate, or other compute options.

Is EKS the same as Kubernetes?

No. Kubernetes is the open-source container orchestration system. EKS is an AWS service that runs conformant Kubernetes and manages key cluster infrastructure for you.

Official AWS sources