Canonical released MicroCloud 3.1 as the first feature update in the new 3 series, introducing multi-cluster management, UI access improvements, and early support for newer networking components.
Just to clarify for our readers, MicroCloud is a lightweight open-source cloud stack based on LXD. It integrates LXD for system containers and virtual machines, MicroCeph for distributed storage, and MicroOVN for networking into a single automated deployment, suitable for homelabs, edge environments, and small-scale infrastructure.
Version 3.1 introduces Cluster Manager integration, enabling administrators to manage and monitor multiple MicroCloud clusters from a single interface. Deployments can now connect to an existing Cluster Manager instance for centralized visibility across environments.
Moreover, initial access to the web interface is now simplified. During the interactive microcloud init process, users are prompted to create a temporary UI access link. If enabled, this generates a 24-hour link for immediate access to the LXD web UI after deployment. Keep in mind that this feature requires LXD 6 or newer, which is currently available on a non-LTS feature track.
MicroCloud 3.1 also adds experimental support for MicroOVN 26.03, a lightweight, snap-packaged distribution of Open Virtual Network. This version is available through the edge channel and is not yet an LTS release. It enables testing of upcoming networking features before a future stable release. MicroOVN 24.03 LTS remains the default and recommended option for production environments.
Finally, as the first feature release in the 3 series, Canonical does not yet recommend MicroCloud 3.1 for production use. Systems running MicroCloud 2 LTS should not upgrade to version 3, as production upgrade paths are not yet supported.
The release is available through the 3/candidate snap channel and will move to 3/stable after initial validation. For more details, see the release notes.
Image credits: Canonical
