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November 17, 2024

How to Install Docassemble: A Step-by-Step Guide #1

I.            Introduction

In our previous article, we introduced Docassemble, a robust open-source platform designed for automating document assembly and streamlining legal processes. We explored its potential applications for legal professionals and how it can enhance efficiency in various areas of practice.

Now, to help you take the next step, this guide will walk you through the installation process of Docassemble using Docker Desktop. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and tools needed to set up Docassemble on your computer. You can also run Docker on cloud service like Amazon Web Services (AWS).

II.            Minimum System Requirements

To run Docassemble efficiently, ensure your computer meets the following minimum requirements:

  • RAM: At least 4GB of RAM is recommended. During normal operation, Docassemble uses around 800-900MB of RAM. Having at least 4GB ensures smooth operation
  • Storage: Make sure your system has enough storage to accommodate Docker and the Docassemble container

III.            Docassemble installation step-by-step

Step 1: Install Docker Desktop

Docassemble runs on Docker, so installing Docker Desktop is the first step. Follow these steps to install Docker Desktop on your system:

For Mac Users:

  1. Visit Docker Desktop for Mac and download the installer.
  2. Open the downloaded file (Docker.dmg), and drag Docker to your Applications folder.
  3. Launch Docker Desktop from Applications. You might need to allow Docker access in your system preferences and restart your computer.

For Windows Users:

  1. Visit Docker Desktop for Windows and download the installer.
  2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions (make sure to enable WSL 2 if prompted—it’s required for Docker to run).
  3. After installation, restart your computer if prompted and launch Docker Desktop.

Step 2: Download the Docassemble Setup Files

  1. Visit the main page of Docassemble and look for the “Deploy” section. In this section, you’ll find a link that provides detailed instructions on installing Docassemble using Docker Desktop. Click on the “Docker” hyperlink to be redirected to the installation guide.
  2. On the “Installing on Docker” page, scroll down to the third item in the index, titled “Quick Start.” Within this section, locate point 3.1, named “Starting.” This section contains the command you’ll need to download the Docker setup files for Docassemble.
  3. To run the command, on Mac, open Terminal, and on Windows, open Command Prompt. Then, enter the following command in the terminal or command prompt:

docker run -d -p 80:80 -p 443:443 –restart always –stop-timeout 600 jhpyle/docassemble

  • Press Enter after typing the command. This will initiate the download and setup process for Docassemble via Docker. Wait until all the necessary files have been downloaded and the setup is complete.

Step 3: Start Docassemble

  1. On your computer, open the Docker Desktop dashboard. You should see a container labeled “Trusting_wilbur.” A container in Docker Desktop is a small, self-contained package that includes everything an application needs to run, such as the code, libraries, and settings. It keeps the application separate from the rest of your computer, so it works the same no matter where it’s run.Click on it, then click the link at the top labeled “80:80.”
  2. This will open a new page in your web browser at http://localhost/, where you will see the Docassemble login page.


V.            Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Docassemble on your Mac or Windows system. You’re now ready to explore its features and begin automating your legal documents. Stay tuned for upcoming articles packed with practical tips and insights on optimizing your legal work with Docassemble. Don’t miss out on how to take your practice to the next level!

If you have any trouble with installation, feel free to contract us for the assistance.

Smart LegalTech ,
About Alba Terés Moli
Alba Teres is a Spanish lawyer specializing in Intellectual Property and Information Technology law. With experience advising clients on matters such as copyright, trademarks, data protection, and digital privacy, she is highly skilled at navigating the complex legal challenges of the digital age. Alba has also written for various legal publications, contributing insightful articles on emerging technologies, including cryptocurrencies, the metaverse, and other innovations.