Git

Git is a decentralized version control system and content management tool. It allows developers and teams to manage projects by maintaining all versions of files, past and present, allowing for reversion and comparison; facilitating exploration and experimentation with branching; and enabling simultaneous work by multiple authors without the need for a central file server. It can be used offline for version control and revision history or in conjunction with a remote repository to make working in teams easier and safer.

It is important to note that Git itself is not a tool for backing up files. The loss of a local Git repository in connection with a file system failure is permanent unless a remote copy of the repository exists.

Resources

Git binary

While it's possible to use git on most systems without configuration, we recommend using the most recent version of Git, which can be accessed through the module:

module load git

Remote Git repositories

The CHPC maintains a GitLab Community Edition server for users who are interested in collaborating and sharing internally. You can log in with your University of Utah credentials (your ID and password). In order to access the CHPC's GitLab instance, gitlab.chpc.utah.edu, you must be on campus IP space. If you are trying to access gitlab.chpc.utah.edu from off campus, you will need to use the campus VPN.

Alternatively, third-party hosting services can be used; some of the most popular are GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket. Each option for remote repositories has its strengths and weaknesses, so seek out reviews, policies, and recommendations before you start.

Additionally, please be aware that sensitive data may not be stored on remote repository hosts, including the CHPC's GitLab instance, unless there is a formal agreement in place.

Git presentation

The CHPC has an introductory Git presentation that covers the fundamentals of using Git.