In a Google Kubernetes Engine environment, what should you use to gather real-time performance metrics?

Integrating Cloud Logging with custom metrics is effective for gathering real-time performance metrics in a Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) environment. This approach allows you to leverage both the logging capabilities of Google Cloud and the customization options that come with defining your own metrics.

By using Cloud Logging, you can capture detailed logs from your applications running in GKE, while custom metrics enable you to monitor specific performance indicators that are essential for your application’s health and performance. The combination allows for comprehensive monitoring, as you are not only relying on predefined metrics but also tailoring the insights you need based on the application's specific characteristics and requirements.

This method provides a more granular view of performance, supports alerting, and helps you identify potential issues quickly. It enables developers and DevOps teams to react to performance anomalies and operational incidents more efficiently, thus enhancing the overall operational performance of applications deployed in the Kubernetes environment.

The integration with Cloud Logging also plays a vital role in aligning your metrics with Google Cloud's ecosystem, facilitating easier access to other Google services and tools for a more cohesive monitoring strategy.