5 Simple Steps to Install WebODM on Your Computer
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 5 min read

Contents

Step 1: Getting Ready

Step 2: Setting up WebODM

Step 3: Working with Docker

Step 4: Accessing WebODM

Step 5: Final Touches

Whether you're a seasoned drone mapper or new to the game, getting WebODM up and running on your computer might seem like a daunting task. But don't fret, my friend! This guide will break down the process into five simple steps, making you a whizz at using the webodm installer in no time. So shall we dive right in?

Step 1: Getting Ready

Before we start with the actual installation, it's always a good idea to make sure we have everything we need. This involves downloading the necessary software and making sure your computer meets the required specs.

Download WebODM

First things first, you're going to need the WebODM software. You can easily find this by doing a quick Google search for "WebODM download". The download should bring a .zip file to your computer. Once downloaded, extract the contents to a location that's easy for you to find. Remember, this is the software we'll be working with, so keep it handy.

Check Computer Specs

Next, let's make sure your computer is up to the task. WebODM requires a computer with at least 4GB of RAM, but I'd recommend having 8GB or more if you're planning on working with larger datasets. As for the processor, anything with 4 cores or more should do the trick. Lastly, make sure you have enough storage space — WebODM can be quite the space hog, especially when working with big projects. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 20GB of free space available.

So, now that you have your webodm installer and your computer is geared up, it's time to roll up our sleeves and get down to the fun part — the installation!

Step 2: Setting up WebODM

Great work on getting everything ready! Now you're all set to start the actual installation process. This step will involve two major parts: installing Docker, and running the WebODM manager.

Install Docker

WebODM relies on Docker to function, so we'll need to get that installed first. Simply head over to the Docker website and download the Docker Desktop installer for your specific operating system. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the prompts — it's as easy as pie! Once Docker is installed, make sure it's running. You can check this by looking for the Docker icon in your system tray.

Run WebODM Manager

Now that Docker's all set up, it's time to run the WebODM Manager. Navigate to the location where you extracted WebODM earlier, and look for a file called "WebODM Manager.exe". Double click to run it, and a window will open up. You'll see a big "Start" button — go ahead and click it. The WebODM Manager will now start setting up the webodm installer for you. This might take a while, so maybe grab a cup of coffee or tea while you wait.

Once the WebODM Manager has finished its job, we're ready to move on to the next step: working with Docker.

Step 3: Working with Docker

Now that you've got Docker and the WebODM Manager up and running, it's time to familiarize yourself with Docker. This stage will involve two key tasks: opening the Docker dashboard and starting the WebODM container.

Open Docker Dashboard

First, let's open the Docker Dashboard. You can find this by clicking on the Docker icon in your system tray, and then selecting 'Dashboard' from the menu. The Docker Dashboard is your command center for all things Docker-related, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. Here, you can see all your running containers, images, and volumes.

Start WebODM Container

Next, it's time to start your WebODM container. This is essentially the heart of your WebODM installation. Back on your Docker Dashboard, you'll see a list of containers. Look for the one labeled 'WebODM_webapp' and click the 'Start' button next to it. Docker will now boot up your WebODM container, and once it's up and running, you're ready to move on to the next step: accessing WebODM.

Well done! You're making great progress on your journey to becoming a WebODM installer whiz.

Step 4: Accessing WebODM

Great job on successfully setting up Docker and starting the WebODM container! Now you’re ready to access WebODM and start exploring what it has to offer.

Log in to WebODM

Firstly, you’ll need to log in to WebODM. Open your preferred web browser and type in "localhost:8000" in the address bar. This should take you to the WebODM login page. Use the username and password you created during the WebODM setup process to log in. If you've forgotten them, don't worry—you can reset them from the login page. Once you’re logged in, you’re ready to create your first project.

Create New Project

Creating a new project in WebODM is a breeze. Once logged in, you'll see a 'New Project' button on the homepage. Click it, and you'll be directed to the project creation page. Here, you can give your project a name and description, and choose the files you want to include. When you're ready, hit the 'Create' button. Voila! You've just created your first WebODM project.

You're almost there! Just one more step to fully harness the power of the WebODM installer.

Step 5: Final Touches

You've done an amazing job so far. Now, let's get to know WebODM a little better and start using it effectively. Trust me, it's easier than you think.

Understand WebODM Features

WebODM is a powerful tool with numerous features designed to make your life easier. Here are a few key ones you should be familiar with:

  1. Task Manager: This allows you to manage your mapping tasks. You can check the status of ongoing tasks, view completed tasks, or even cancel a task if necessary.
  2. 3D Model Viewer: This is where you can view the 3D models generated by your tasks. You can zoom, pan, and rotate the models to view them from different angles.
  3. Settings: Here, you can modify various settings to customize your WebODM experience. This includes everything from changing your password to adjusting the task processing options.

Take some time to explore these features and get a feel for how they work. The more comfortable you are with WebODM, the easier it will be to use.

Start Using WebODM

Now that you've installed WebODM and familiarized yourself with its features, it's time to start using it. Go ahead and start a new task or project. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use WebODM, the better you'll get at it. Happy mapping!

And there you have it - you're now a fully-fledged user of the WebODM installer. Well done! You're all set to start your journey in the exciting world of drone mapping.

If you've enjoyed learning about WebODM installation and are looking to further expand your knowledge in the web development world, we highly recommend checking out the workshop 'Start Your web3 Journey' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop will help you dive deeper into the world of web3, exploring decentralized technologies and providing you with essential skills to succeed in this new digital frontier.