etcd-io/etcd: README-based editorial guide

etcd-io/etcd describes itself in the README as "Distributed reliable key-value store for the most critical data of a distributed system". This article keeps to facts that can be checked in the repository. Stars, forks, and promotional badges are signals of attention, not proof of quality. Under "etcd", the README says: Note: The main branch may be in an unstable or even broken state during development. For stable versions, see [releases][github-release].. That establishes the project's stated boundary, not a production test.

The README's "Next steps" section gives a useful starting point for deciding whether the project fits: Set up a [multi-machine cluster][clustering].. If that problem is not yours, popularity is a poor reason to adopt it. Project names, commands, and component names are kept as written so a reader can return to the primary source without guessing at terminology. Another checkable README item is: Secure: automatic TLS with optional client cert authentication. It can shape a first test, but it does not replace testing in the intended environment.

The operating model is spread across sections such as "etcd". The source evidence includes: etcd is written in Go and uses the [Raft][] consensus algorithm to manage a highly-available replicated log.. This article does not turn missing architecture, performance, or security details into claims. A real deployment still needs a look at the repository layout, configuration files, and release history.

Start installation from the README's documented entry point. A command that can be checked in the source is: go get go.etcd.io/etcd/client/v3 When the README contains no runnable command, this article does not invent one. Open its "Maintainers" section and confirm system dependencies, default ports, and first-run initialization before using a public server.