Host

It is best to always install the newest R and Python version next to the newest Omniscope version, either being a Rock version or a Daily version. A new Omniscope version will always be compatible with the most current R and Python version on the day of its release.

Generally speaking, R and Python versions are backward compatible, i.e. a Block, or script, developed for an old version will also work in a newer version, except when this compatibility is broken which can happen when a version changes its major number, e.g. when R switched from 3 to 4, or when Python changed from 2 to 3.

R and Python versions are however not forward compatible, which means that a Block, or script, developed for a new version, will most likely not work with an old version.

This has implications regarding packages. Package updates will typically change their compatibility over time to be compatible with newer R and Python versions, and drop compatibility to older versions. This means that even if your Block or script was built for an old R or Python version, and would theoretically work with a newer R or Python version, due to package compatibility or dependency conflicts, your Block or script might no longer work.

Docker

You do not need to manage R, Python, or any of their packages when you use Docker as the server's execution mode. We provide Docker images that contain everything Omniscope needs in its most recent and most compatible form.

Self-created Docker images

Omniscope is able to use Docker images you created yourself as the base image for Custom script executions. If you are using scripts that need additional system libraries, specific R or Python versions installed, you can create your own images and have the Custom Block use them. However, in this case the R, Python, and Package versions are determined by the exact setup you choose. 

The same considerations as for Host execution apply to this setup. If not updated, script languages, packages, and Omniscope itself might slowly become incompatible with each other.