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How do I install Contrast?

Published in Software Installation 4 mins read

Installing Contrast Security involves a few key steps to properly configure the software and integrate it with your environment. Here's a general overview of the installation process, based on common practices:

  1. Prepare Your Operating System: The base operating system needs to be preconfigured. This often includes ensuring you have the necessary shared libraries for running databases like MySQL. Check the Contrast Security documentation for specific requirements based on your chosen database.

  2. Run the Installer as an Administrator: The installation process requires elevated privileges. You'll need to run the installer as a user with administrator or root access on the target system. This ensures the installer can make the necessary system-level changes.

  3. Respond to Installer Prompts: The installer will guide you through a series of questions to tailor the installation to your specific environment. Be prepared to provide information such as:

    • Database connection details (hostname, port, username, password)
    • Application server details (if applicable)
    • Desired installation directory
    • Licensing information
    • Any custom configuration settings

  4. Complete the Installation and Initial Configuration: Once you've provided the necessary information, the installer will proceed with the installation. After the installation is complete, the Contrast application will typically perform an initial configuration. This might involve setting up the database schema, configuring default users, and initializing other system components.

Detailed Steps (General Guide):

While specific instructions vary based on the Contrast product (e.g., Contrast Assess, Contrast Protect, Contrast Scan) and your environment (e.g., cloud, on-premise), here's a more detailed breakdown of the generic process:

  • Download the Installer: Obtain the correct installer package from Contrast Security's website or your designated software repository.
  • Verify System Requirements: Confirm that your system meets the minimum hardware and software requirements. This includes checking the operating system version, Java version, database version, and available resources.
  • Pre-Installation Tasks:
    • Ensure a supported Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is installed.
    • Create the Contrast database and user (if not using an existing database).
    • Configure any necessary firewall rules to allow communication between Contrast components.
  • Run the Installer: Execute the installer with administrator privileges.
  • Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The installer will present a series of screens to guide you through the installation process.
  • Provide Database Connection Details: Specify the hostname, port, database name, username, and password for the database you will use with Contrast.
  • Configure Application Settings: Set the desired installation directory, application port, and other relevant settings.
  • Enter License Information: Provide your Contrast license key or connect to the Contrast licensing server.
  • Complete the Installation: The installer will copy files, configure the application, and start the Contrast service.
  • Verify the Installation: After the installation is complete, verify that the Contrast service is running and that you can access the Contrast web interface.
  • Initial Configuration (Post-Installation):
    • Log in to the Contrast web interface.
    • Configure users and roles.
    • Integrate Contrast with your development tools and CI/CD pipeline.
    • Configure vulnerability detection rules and policies.

Example Scenario (Conceptual):

Imagine you're installing Contrast on a Linux server. You might first install the necessary MySQL client libraries:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install libmysqlclient-dev

Then, you'd download the Contrast installer and run it as root:

sudo ./contrast-installer.sh

The installer would then prompt you for database connection details, the desired installation directory, and your license key. After providing the information, the installer would proceed with the installation.

Important Considerations:

  • Consult the Official Documentation: The official Contrast Security documentation is your primary source of information. Always refer to the documentation for the specific version of Contrast you are installing. The link provided in the references (https://docs.contrastsecurity.com/en/install-contrast.html) is a good starting point.
  • Environment-Specific Instructions: The installation process might vary depending on your environment (e.g., cloud, on-premise, containerized).
  • Troubleshooting: If you encounter any issues during the installation process, consult the Contrast Security knowledge base or contact Contrast Security support for assistance.

In summary, installing Contrast requires proper system preparation, running the installer with administrative privileges, responding to installer prompts, and completing the initial configuration. Always consult the official documentation for specific instructions and troubleshooting tips.

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