Classic cluster creation restrictions

Classic infrastructure

Accounts that do not already have at least one classic cluster in a region can no longer create new classic clusters in that region. This restriction applies when you create a cluster from the console, the CLI, the API, or Terraform.

Who is affected by this restriction?

This restriction applies to your account if both of the following conditions are true:

  • You are trying to create a classic cluster in a region.
  • Your account does not already have an existing classic cluster in that same region.

Accounts that already have at least one classic cluster in a region are not affected and can continue to create classic clusters there.

Why does this restriction exist?

Classic infrastructure is a legacy compute platform. IBM Cloud Kubernetes Service is investing in VPC infrastructure as the strategic direction for new workloads. VPC clusters provide improved security, networking flexibility, and a better overall experience. To learn more, see Overview of Classic and VPC infrastructure.

What error do I see when classic cluster creation is blocked?

If you try to create a classic cluster in a region where your account has no existing classic clusters, the request is rejected with the following error:

E501e: Classic cluster creation is not supported in regions that do not have existing classic clusters.

What are my options if I'm affected?

If your account is affected, consider the following options:

  • Create a VPC cluster. VPC clusters are the recommended option for new workloads. To get started, see Creating VPC clusters.
  • Use a region where you already have a classic cluster. If your account has a classic cluster in another region, you can create additional classic clusters in that region.
  • Request an exception. If you have a specific use case that requires classic infrastructure in a new region and you cannot migrate to VPC, open a support case and provide your account ID, the target region, and the reason that VPC infrastructure does not meet your requirements.

How do I check whether my account has existing classic clusters?

To check which regions your account has classic clusters in, run the following command:

ibmcloud ks clusters --provider classic

The output lists all classic clusters and their regions. If the list is empty or does not include the target region, the restriction applies to you for that region.