Elevator Pitch
Learn how to migrate a private cellular network from Docker Compose to Kubernetes with Helm—right on your personal computer using KIND! Explore real challenges, CNI plugins like Calico & Multus, and build a telco-grade lab with full cloud-native power at home.
Description
This talk takes you on a hands-on journey to migrate a private cellular network—from Docker Compose to Kubernetes—using Helm and running locally on your personal computer with KIND (Kubernetes in Docker). You’ll learn how to containerize and orchestrate a telco-grade network, from 4G/5G core components to service applications, while integrating multiple CNI plugins like Calico and Multus for realistic network scenarios. We’ll walk through the key architectural decisions, practical migration steps, and lessons learned deploying in a constrained, non-production environment, without sacrificing complexity. What you’ll learn: 1. How to replicate telco infrastructure using KIND and Helm 2. How to combine CNIs (Calico, Multus) to simulate real-world networking 3. Common pitfalls when moving from Docker Compose to Kubernetes 4. What automated tools we can use, however without success 4. How to build an extensible lab for edge, 5G, or research use cases Whether you’re a cloud-native enthusiast, a telco engineer, or just curious about running complex infrastructure on your laptop, this talk will give you the tools and insights to get started.
Notes
This talk includes a live deployment of a private cellular network testbed on stage, using Kubernetes with KIND and Helm. All on a personal laptop. Yes, we’ll bring up a real network core, applications, and services, demonstrating CNIs like Calico and Multus in action. The goal is to demystify how telco infrastructure can be prototyped and managed with modern cloud-native tools, even in constrained environments. We want the audience to walk away not just inspired, but technically equipped to try it themselves. I’m the ideal person to present this because: 1. I designed and deployed a 5G pilot network approved by Colombia’s MinTIC. 2. I co-founded a R&D company focused on open, next-gen telco infrastructure. 3. I’ve taught 5G and Kubernetes to engineers, students, and government officials. 4. I maintain and test this demo setup routinely as part of my current work. 5. I bring technical depth, real-world experience, and a passion for making advanced telco tools accessible to the wider cloud-native and developer community. 6. I am heading the path to Kubeastronaut If infrastructure can be magic, this talk is the wand where we private cellular network on stage to get popularity.