Summary and Setup

Welcome to learn how to use Docker containers as a working environment during the 2024 CMS Open Data Workshop. Containers are the most reproducible way to give all participants the same working environment, and will be used in all the interactive lessons of this workshop.

In this lesson, you will be asked to download the containers that will facilitate your work on CMS Open Data, and learn the basics of their use. This is not a full introduction to Docker, however, we do take time to explain some key concepts that should make your experience a smooth one.

Working environment

Note

We expect participants to work in a Unix environment on their laptop.

If you are unfamiliar with the Unix shell, you can work through the exercises in The Unix Shell tutorial by Software Carpentry.

Windows users: the Unix tutorial gives git bash as an option. However, for all work during the hands-on session:

  • do not use git bash
  • do not use Power shell (apart from installing WSL2)
  • activate WSL2 and use the Ubuntu terminal that comes with it!

Activate WSL2 and use the Ubuntu terminal.

Note that if the Ubuntu terminal does not open properly, you might need to enable Virtualization in the BIOS menu.

You might also need to set a parameter in Command prompt (run it as admin):

bcdedit /set {current} hypervisorlaunchtype auto

and restart the computer.

Note that if you use virtual images e.g. VirtualBox on the same computer, you need to set that parameter to off and restart. So no WSL2 and VirtualBox in the same session.

Use Terminal.app

Use Terminal