UB Containers as a Service (UB CaaS)

UB Containers as a Service (UB CaaS, formerly WebApps ) is a webhosting service providing access to various programming languages and databases. It is often used in conjunction with a UB Content Management System site to add additional functionality.

Log into OpenShift
Log into UBVCS (Git)

A Virtual Private Network may be required for access. See below.

Request a UB CaaS Account

UB Web developers maintaining official UB websites may request an account through the UBIT Help Center. Use of UB CaaS is subject to our terms of service.

Add a Contributor

Submit a request to your departmental IT support to have the new contributor's UBITName added to the project's AD Group.

Step-by-step instructions

UB CaaS is comprised of two parts: OpenShift and UB Version Control System.

OpenShift Pods (Containers)

Use OpenShift to create "pods" (or "Linux containers") that will host your Web applications. Think of each one as your very own server, with file systems and logs that only you can access. 

UB Version Control System (Git)

This is where you keep your code. A "version control system" records changes to a file or set of files over time so that you can recall specific versions later.  We highly recommend that all developers use UB's Version Control System (UBVCS) to manage their application code.  UBVCS is powered by git, a distributed revision control system aimed at speed, data integrity, and support for distributed, non-linear workflows.

Common questions

Is UB CaaS an alternative to the UB Content Management System?

No. UB CaaS is a way to extend the UBCMS's functionality. Applications you create in UB CaaS can be included in UBCMS Web pages through the External Embed or HTML Snippet components.

What programming languages and frameworks are available?

  • Java
  • PHP
  • Ruby
  • Perl
  • Python
  • NodeJS
  • .Net

Should I maintain separate "production" and "development" pods?

Yes. We encourage anyone doing active development of their site to have both a live/production pod and a development pod.

Is (S)FTP access available?

Sorry, direct (S)FTP access to the containers is not available. However, a CLI utility is available for Windows, Linux and Mac that provides more advanced features such as rsh and rsync.

I need a database for my application. What should I use?

We recommend using a MySQL central database.  You may request one through the UBIT Help Center Online.

The following available CaaS database pods are NOT backed up or currently administered, and are therefore NOT recommended for production environments: 

  • MariaDB
  • MongoDB
  • MySQL 
  • Oracle (available through the central database cluster)
  • PostgreSQL

Where can I go for more information?

Consider joining the CaaS Listserv: webapps-users-list@listserv.buffalo.edu

  1. Create an email from your @buffalo.edu address
  2. Provide the following information:
  3. Send the email

See also

Still need help?

Contact the UBIT Help Center.