Gateway API package changes are reverted on VKS Workload Clusters

Products

• VMware vSphere Kubernetes Service

Issue/Introduction

When attempting to delete or replace the Gateway API package on a VKS Workload Cluster, the package is automatically restored and any manual changes are reverted. This behavior is observed, for example, when installing a different Gateway API version, which is subsequently reconciled back to the version defined by the cluster.

Cause

The Gateway API package is a system-managed component included as part of the selected vSphere Kubernetes Release (VKr). Components defined within the VKr are continuously reconciled to ensure cluster stability, compatibility, and correct networking functionality.

Because Gateway API is defined in the VKr, it cannot be manually deleted or replaced at the Workload Cluster level.

Resolution

Manually deleting or modifying the Gateway API package is not supported.

If Gateway API deployment is not desired, one of the following supported approaches must be used:

• Deploy a Workload Cluster using a VKr version that does not include the Gateway API package, if available.
• Build and deploy a custom VKr image that excludes the Gateway API package.

The Gateway API version included with each VKr can be identified in the VMware VKr Release Notes under the Components section:  VMware VKr Release Notes

Instructions for building a custom VKr are available at: Build Your Own VKr