Running DX on Linux or in a Virtual Environment

Overview

This article explains the challenges and possible workarounds for running Data Exchange (DX) on a Linux system, particularly in headless or virtualized environments such as DoD’s RedHat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) setup.

1. Problem: DX Fails to Launch in Linux (DISPLAY Error)

✔ Observed Behavior:

• DX was run on a RedHat Enterprise Linux 8.9 server.

• DISPLAY environment variable error appears, preventing DX from launching.

• Installing X11 applications did not resolve the issue.

• The issue likely arises because Linux environments lack a GUI for JavaFX-based applications.

✔ Why This Happens:

• DX is a GUI-based Java application that requires a graphical display (X11/Wayland) to run.

• Running DX over SSH (headless mode) does not provide GUI access.

• DX has never been officially tested or supported on Linux.

2. Workarounds for Running DX in Linux

A. Use a Windows Virtual Machine (Recommended)

✔ Since DX is officially supported on Windows, running DX inside a Windows VM with a remote desktop is the most reliable solution.

B. Enable X11 Forwarding for GUI Applications

✔ If DX must run on Linux, enable X11 forwarding to allow GUI-based applications to work:

1. Install an X11 server on the Linux machine (e.g., xorg-x11-server-Xorg).

2. On the SSH client, use:

   sql

   CopyEdit

   ssh -X user@linux-machine

3. Verify X11 forwarding is working by running:

   nginx

   CopyEdit

   xclock

4. If X11 forwarding works, try launching DX:

   nginx

   CopyEdit

   java -jar DataExchange.jar

C. Use a Windows-Based Jump Host

✔ If security policies prevent GUI applications on Linux, DX can be installed on a Windows jump host with access to Jama Connect.

D. Run DX on a Windows Machine with Samba/NFS Access to Linux Files

✔ If Linux is required for data storage, run DX on Windows but access ReqIF files via a network share (Samba/NFS).

3. Best Practices for Running DX in Secure Linux Environments

✅ Use a Windows VM whenever possible, as DX is not designed for Linux.
✅ If GUI access is required, enable X11 forwarding.
✅ Consider using a jump host or remote desktop to access DX on a supported OS.
✅ If Linux storage is needed, access ReqIF files over Samba/NFS rather than running DX natively.

4. Conclusion

• DX is not officially supported on Linux, and GUI-based applications require an X11 server to run.

• Using a Windows VM or jump host is the best workaround for secure environments like DoD.

• If GUI restrictions exist, accessing DX remotely from a Windows machine is recommended.