Using Containers on HPC Systems

Containers are lightweight, portable files that bundle code, files, and dependencies needed for particular applications. These isolate software within a single file that allows researchers to use custom software in the container that may not be available on the host system's operating system.

Docker Containers on HPC

Please be aware that we do not allow docker containers to be used on any of ARCC's HPC systems. This is due to a security flaw within docker that requires root access to the host system.

On ARCC's HPC systems, we have the Apptainer module that enables containerized applications to be pulled, built, and executed. Many other containerization software can be converted into Apptainer containers, including Docker containers.

For more information on using containers, please see ARCC's tutorial for using Containers on HPC Systems