> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pangolin.net/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Choose an Installation Path

> Choose the Kubernetes deployment workflow for Pangolin and Sites (Newt).

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    Fastest way to get started with Pangolin using the hosted control plane. No credit card required.
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Use this page to pick the right Kubernetes guide for your deployment workflow.

These guides assume you are already familiar with Kubernetes and the deployment tools listed below.

If you are new to Kubernetes, start with the [official Kubernetes learning resources](https://kubernetes.io/docs/tutorials/kubernetes-basics/) first. Then review the [Prerequisites](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/prerequisites) guide to check your cluster, tools, and setup.

## Installation paths

| Path      | Use when                                                                                                                                             | Start here                                                      |
| --------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Helm      | You want the standard chart-based installation path for Pangolin or Sites (Newt).                                                                    | [Helm Quick-Start](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/helm)           |
| Kustomize | You want manifest overlays, for example for environment-specific configuration, patches, or rendered manifests that can be reviewed before applying. | [Kustomize Quick-Start](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/kustomize) |
| Argo CD   | You already use Argo CD and want to deploy Pangolin or Sites (Newt) through a Kubernetes-native GitOps workflow.                                     | [Argo CD Guide](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/gitops/argocd)     |
| Flux      | You already use Flux and want to manage Pangolin or Sites (Newt) through `HelmRelease` or `Kustomization` resources.                                 | [Flux Guide](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/gitops/flux)          |
| Helmfile  | You want to manage multiple related Helm releases as one stack.                                                                                      | [Helmfile Guide](/self-host/manual/kubernetes/helmfile)         |

## Recommended starting point

For most Kubernetes deployments, start with Helm. Use the GitOps guides only if Argo CD or Flux is already part of your deployment workflow.

Kustomize and Helmfile are useful when you need more control over manifests, overlays, or multiple coordinated releases.

## Next steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Prerequisites" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/prerequisites" icon="list-check">
    Review the required cluster, ingress, DNS, storage, and secret setup.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Helm Quick-Start" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/helm" icon="box">
    Install Pangolin or Sites (Newt) with the standard chart-based workflow.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Kustomize Quick-Start" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/kustomize" icon="layer-group">
    Use overlays and patches for manifest-based deployments.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Argo CD Guide" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/gitops/argocd" icon="code-branch">
    Deploy Pangolin or Sites (Newt) with Argo CD.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Flux Guide" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/gitops/flux" icon="code-branch">
    Deploy Pangolin or Sites (Newt) with Flux.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Helmfile Guide" href="/self-host/manual/kubernetes/helmfile" icon="boxes-stacked">
    Manage multiple Helm releases together.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>