Learn with use cases
When it comes to HashiCorp Waypoint, it does not only simplify the process of application deployment but also automates it. As useful as the core feature of deploying applications is, the advanced features of HashiCorp Waypoint are what truly shines. In this post, we will take a look at these advanced features of HashiCorp Waypoint and learn how these can assist you when working with custom integrations, complex workflows and implementing advanced deployment techniques.
1. Orchestrating Complex Workflows
What this system allows you to do, with the workflow engine, goes well beyond what would be considered a basic deployment. You will now be able to configure complex workflows involving branching with conditions and looping.
Branching: We can now create logic that would branch automatic deployment of applications rather than having the applications deployed to all available environments – multiple targeting is possible. That is, create staging and production deadlines depending on the active Git branch.
Looping: Have the process perform predetermined automation sequentially to eliminate repetitiveness, for instance – deploy the application to an assortment of environments or orchestrate updates on a server congregation.
Conditional Execution: Take scheduled steps rather than always executing a procedure, for instance – carry out integration tests for a specific region during set time periods.
2. Extending Waypoint via Custom Plugins
One of the biggest benefits Waypoint has is its ability to be extended with plugins that allow creating the behavior that meets the requirements along with integrations into custom tools and services.
Custom Commands Carve out new unique logics into Waypoint’s built in commands and automate essential activities that may be unique to an application or infrastructure.
Custom Providers Expand Waypoint’s native abilities by integrating into infrastructure tools or cloud-based service platforms that may not be feasible out of the box.
Custom integrations Bring in existing monitoring tools in addition to integration with CI/CD pipelines already deployed with Waypoint.
3. Creating Advanced Deployment Tactics
Advanced deployment tactics with reduced risk factor and better reliability are achievable with Waypoint.
Blue/Green Deployments To further enhance the application, a different environment (blue) is set up while ensuring the already existing version is running seamlessly (green) After reviewing the new version, traffic to the blue environment is gradually restored thus providing uninterrupted operations along with the option to rollback if needed.
Canary Deployments Before accessing the changes made with the application, roll out the modified application to a specific subset of users for them to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the changes made. This approach allows for effectively tracking the results of the changes made thereby ensuring quick rectection of any arising issues.
4. Effortless Integration of Infrastructure-as-Code (Iac)
Waypoint has high compatibility with terraform that allows users to combine operator deployment of the application and development of the infrastructure into one flow.
Development of the Infrastructure: Before deploying the application use terraform to develop the servers, networks, and databases you require then deploy the application.
Coordination of Deployments: Incorporate Waypoint deployment triggers into your Terraform workflows for synchronicity of the developed infrastructure and the deployed applications.
Real-World Practical Applications
Microservices Deployment Pipeline: With Waypoint incorporate blue/green deployments, configuration of settings according to the required environment, and automated testing into a CI/CD pipeline for a microservices application.
Multi-Cloud Deployments: Waypoint’s multi cloud compatibility can aid in the deployment of applications on different cloud providers such as IAC, GCP, and Azure.
Custom Plugin for Database Migrations: Develop a custom Waypoint plugin that allows you to perform automatic migrations of the database while deploying new applications as this would ensure data reliability during the process.
Code Example (HCL - Waypoint Configuration):
project "my-project" {
application "my-app" {
build {
# .... build configuration...
}
deploy {
#....deployment configuration....
environment "staging" {
# ...staging environment configuration...
}
}
}
#continue ......
Call to Action
This post is a leeway into the deployment of applications with the advanced capabilities of HashiCorp Waypoint. Remember to check more of these resources to further your understanding:
- Official Waypoint Documentation: https://www.hashicorp.com/products/waypoint
YouTube Videos Links:
Building Custom Waypoint Plugins: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsIOeTmpjW0
Implementing Blue/Green Deployments with Waypoint: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMVZo067t4o
With the assistance of these advanced concepts you will indeed be able to leverage the full efficiency of the Waypoint and have your applications delivered in a controlled, reliable and efficient manner.
See you in next blog, Happy Learning!