Developing
Kernel is a flexible cloud platform that enables you to deploy and execute code without managing infrastructure. With Kernel, you can take your code from local development to production in seconds.
Apps, Actions, and Invocations
An App
is the codebase deployed on Kernel. You can use Kernel for a variety of use cases, including web automation, data processing, AI agents, and more.
An Action
is an invokable method within an app. Actions allow your to register entry points or functions that can be triggered on-demand. Actions can call non-action methods. Apps can have multiple actions.
An Invocation
is a single execution of an action. Invocations can be triggered via API, scheduled as a job, or run on-demand.
Getting started: create an app
First, install the Kernel SDK and create an app.
Then, define and register an action that you want to invoke:
Parameters
Action methods receive two parameters:
runtimeContext
: Contextual information provided by Kernel during executionpayload
: Optional runtime data that you provide when invoking the action. Read more
This consistent interface ensures your code runs identically in both local and production environments, enabling seamless integration across development and deployment.
Environment variables
Set environment variables when deploying your app. They then can be accessed in the usual way:
Return values
Action methods can return values, which will be returned in its invocation’s final response.
Example Use Cases
Kernel’s flexible, fast platform enables a wide range of applications:
- Web Automation: Create browser-based workflows using Playwright or Puppeteer
- API Integration: Build middleware services connecting different systems
- AI Agents: Deploy and orchestrate autonomous agents
- Data Processing: Run data processing jobs
For specific implementation details about writing browser automations, read our Browser Frameworks guide.
Once you’re happy with your app, follow these steps to deploy and invoke it on the Kernel platform.