🌐 Understanding the Difference Between Git and GitLab | HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, and FTP Explained
Today, I learned some key concepts in software development that are very useful for beginners. My tutor explained the difference between Git and GitLab, and also the purpose of protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, and FTP. Here's a simple explanation of what I understood.
🔁 Git vs GitLab: What's the Difference?
Many people get confused between Git and GitLab, but they are not the same. Here's how they are different:
| Git | GitLab |
|---|---|
| Git is a version control system used to track changes in your code. | GitLab is a web-based Git repository manager used for team collaboration and project management. |
| It works on your local machine through the command line. | It works on a server or cloud, and you access it through a browser. |
You use commands like git init, git add, git commit, and git push. |
You use GitLab to create repositories, merge branches, view commits, and manage CI/CD pipelines. |
✅ Example:
- You create a project in your local machine using Git.
- Then you upload (push) your project to GitLab so your team can access and work on it.
🌍 Understanding Protocols: HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, and FTP
When transferring data between computers or working with repositories, different protocols are used. Here's what they mean and where we use them:
| Protocol | Full Form | Use Case | Secure? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP | HyperText Transfer Protocol | Transfers data over the web (used in web browsers). | ❌ No |
| HTTPS | HTTP Secure | Same as HTTP but encrypted (used for login, payments). | ✅ Yes |
| SSH | Secure Shell | Used to securely connect to a server or repository (like GitLab or GitHub). | ✅ Yes |
| FTP | File Transfer Protocol | Used to upload/download files to/from servers. | ❌ Often No (unless FTPS is used) |
✅ Which Should You Use in Git?
- HTTPS: Easy to use for beginners, but requires entering username/password.
- SSH: Recommended for developers. More secure and doesn’t ask for a password every time.
- FTP: Used mostly for uploading files to websites (not for Git).
📝 Conclusion
- Git helps you manage code locally.
- GitLab helps you manage projects online with your team.
- Use SSH or HTTPS to push/pull code securely.
- Know the difference between protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, and FTP for better web understanding.
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