Overview

KubeVirt VM Management for Shared Kubernetes Platforms

Shepherd turns KubeVirt VM lifecycle operations into managed workflows for teams that need user-facing VM service delivery without losing platform control.

From VM resources to an operating model

KubeVirt gives Kubernetes the resources and controllers needed to run virtual machines. Shepherd focuses on the next operational layer: how VM changes are requested, who can perform them, where they run, and how the platform records what happened.

Lifecycle workflows Shepherd covers

The product is designed around common VM operations that become risky when they are exposed directly to many users.

  • Create and modify KubeVirt VMs through request workflows.
  • Start, stop, restart, delete, export, and console actions can be governed.
  • Templates, instance sizes, namespaces, and clusters can be exposed through platform rules.

Useful above kubectl and virtctl

Command-line workflows remain important for operators. Shepherd adds a product layer for users and approvers who need a repeatable VM management process rather than direct cluster credentials for every action.

Questions teams ask

Does Shepherd manage VMs outside Kubernetes?

No. Shepherd manages KubeVirt virtual machines that run on Kubernetes clusters. It does not manage external hypervisor VMs directly.

Does Shepherd replace virtctl?

No. virtctl remains useful for operator workflows. Shepherd adds a governed web and workflow layer for self-service, approval, RBAC, and audit needs.