Connect

Install or Upgrade Redpanda Connect

This page helps you choose how to install or upgrade Redpanda Connect. Select the method that best fits your needs:

Method When to use Limitations

Redpanda CLI (recommended)

The simplest way to install, upgrade, and manage Redpanda Connect. Works on all supported platforms. Automatically upgrades with a single command.

Doesn’t include connectors that require cgo (for example, TigerBeetle).

Helm chart (Kubernetes)

Deploy and manage Redpanda Connect on Kubernetes clusters using Helm. Supports upgrades and rollbacks.

Requires a running Kubernetes cluster and Helm. Not for bare metal or VM installs.

Redpanda Operator (Kubernetes, beta)

Run pipelines as declaratively managed Pipeline resources on Kubernetes. Best when you already manage Redpanda with the Redpanda Operator. You don’t install a separate operator.

Beta feature. Requires an Enterprise Edition license and Redpanda Operator 26.2 or later.

Prebuilt binary (advanced users)

Use when you need a cgo-enabled binary with extra connectors, such as TigerBeetle. Prebuilt archives are published for Linux AMD64.

Not available for Windows, macOS, or Docker images. You must manage upgrades manually.

Build from source (power users / contributors)

Gives full control. Lets you build with CGO_ENABLED=1 to include connectors such as TigerBeetle.

Requires Go toolchain and build setup.