Idle Node Detection
Finds nodes with only DaemonSet pods and no application workloads, marking them for removal to save costs.
Overview
Idle Node Detection identifies Kubernetes nodes that are running only system DaemonSet pods (like monitoring agents, CNI plugins) but have no application workloads scheduled. These nodes consume infrastructure costs without providing business value.
Wave continuously monitors node utilization and flags nodes that can be safely removed to reduce cloud costs. It distinguishes between nodes with genuine application workloads and those that are sitting idle due to cluster autoscaler behavior or workload movements.
Why Better Than Manual Node Auditing
| Manual Node Auditing | Wave Idle Node Detection | |
|---|---|---|
| Detection Method | Manual kubectl inspection of each node—time-consuming and error-prone | Automatic identification of idle nodes across entire cluster |
| Cost Visibility | Difficult to calculate actual waste from idle nodes | Shows exact cost per idle node and total potential savings |
| Cleanup Process | Manual cordon, drain, and termination—risky and tedious | Safe automated removal with validations and rollback capabilities |
Key Outcomes & Benefits
Eliminate costs from nodes running only DaemonSet workloads
Immediate detection of nodes that can be safely removed
Ensure all nodes are running meaningful application workloads
How It Works
1. Node Inventory
Continuously tracks all nodes and the pods running on each node in real-time.
2. Workload Classification
Distinguishes between system DaemonSet pods and actual application workloads.
3. Idle Identification
Flags nodes running only DaemonSet pods with no application workloads scheduled.
4. Cost Calculation
Calculates infrastructure cost per idle node and recommends safe removal or autoscaling adjustments.
Stop Paying for Idle Infrastructure
Identify and eliminate idle nodes to reduce cloud costs immediately.
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