Docker, a platform used to build and share containerized apps, updated its Subscription Service Agreement (SSA) on Dec. 10, 2024. As part of that update, the definition of Personal Offerings as applies to educational organizations now limits free use of Docker Desktop to enrolled students only.
While the previous SSA's definition of Personal Offerings was open to interpretation, the update specifies that Personal Offerings are limited to "...members of an educational organization enrolled in a classroom learning environment solely for academic or research in not for-profit projects..." (emphasis ours).
The updated agreement applies to downloads and installations initiated on or after Dec. 10, 2024, the first of which commits all of CU Boulder to the new terms and conditions. Going forward, CU Boulder faculty, staff, researchers and other non-students who download Docker Desktop for the first time or upgrade an existing installation will need to purchase a license for the product(s) they use.
Currently, OIT cannot offer Docker products at discounted rates. If you're relying on a free offering, we recommend exploring other free alternatives, such as Podman or Rancher.
If you have any questions, please email OIT's Software Asset Management team at oitsoftware@colorado.edu.
Updated on 12/17/2024 to indicate that the SSA changes apply to free use of Docker Desktop, not all Docker products.
