What is a Software Repository?

Are you familiar with the term “software repository”? If you’re new to the industry, you may have heard about it from other developers.  So, here is an overview of what a software repository is, and the popular options you can choose from.

The success of your software development is only as good as the developer’s toolkit. That is why developers prefer to have a load of tools for every stage in the development lifecycle.

And one of these essentials is a good software repository. It’s handy for your product especially for the DevOps team working on the project. Some of these repositories are free, but others in the market collect fees. 

Repositories are used to store the whole operating system. However, it can also be used specifically for a particular program or platform. So are you interested in getting to know more about a software repository, its usage, and the kinds available in the market? Let’s read on.

What Is A Repository?

A software repository is the centralized storage location for software packages. It encourages collaboration among its developers and users through remote access to code packages and modules.

At times, developers call it “code repository” or “repo,” as a shortened term. More often than not, when a package is stored, it includes the table of contents and metadata. Repository managers or source control are the ones responsible for its management and updating.

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Repository Usage and Its Environment

The usage of a software repository depends on the environment it is used in. For instance, in an enterprise environment, it is commonly utilized to keep artifacts. Or if access to an external storage location is limited due to security restrictions, a repo is used to mirror it.

In such cases, the code repository entails additional functionalities, such as security checks, version control, and access control, among others. It may also support various formats in one software package to sustain the needs in an enterprise environment.

However, on the server’s side, repo managers allow the aggregation of other repository locations in one URL. They also supply a caching proxy, and automatically delete the stored unreleased artifacts during the continuous build.

Security Measures for A Software Repository

Since a software repository stores significant packages, utmost security is necessary to guard its data from cyberattacks. Thus, most software repository designs are free of malware and other security threats.

Most repositories have built-in security features, such as authentication systems and an anti-malware design. This way, a legitimate user can go find specific software resources and get them in a safe environment.

Reasons to Use A Repository

Since there is only one centralized storage, repository managers can easily manage, deploy, and manage software and its packages. The software can also be grouped according to categories, so identifying them and installing updates becomes effortless too.

Moreover, since everything is in one common location, you can avoid creating duplicate packages. And, you can easily create a backup for the packages. 

Most importantly, you can do all these tasks in a highly secured environment. Repository managers can give Read-Only permission to folders containing software packages.

Factors to Think About In Choosing A Software Repository Hosting

In today’s market where countless repository hosting services are available for you, how do you choose the right one? Here are five factors you should consider before making the decision. 

Project specifications

What kind of data will the project deal with? How large is the data that needs to be worked on? How large is the volume of commits for the project? 

There are certain types of software repositories that work better with special specifications. So make sure to determine project specifics to help you choose the best one in the market.

Access control

Think about how many people will work on the project. You can also look into the dynamics of the working environment. This way, you can choose a repository that can cater to your access needs. 

Is this a one-man, onsite project? Or does it entail managing a remote team of five? You control management and access according to the type of chosen repository.

Version control compatibility

Check the compatibility of your project’s version control system with the repository hosting service. Make sure to test it thoroughly, so you can avoid challenges along the way. For instance, if you’re using Perl, then look for a repository that supports it. 

External services and tools integrations

Is your team using third-party services and external tools? Then ensure that the repo integrates with it easily. Regardless if it’s automated QA tools or customer support management tools, these external integrations are essential for power user workflows.

Schedule of release

Do you need hosting services that offer CICD add-on tools? How many times do you release updates? How about large periodic update deployment?

There are some repository hosting services that offer various options that may suit your needs. Some even offer issue tracking and release management tools that you can benefit from.

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List of Popular Software Repositories Today

Each of these software repositories caters to different needs and project requirements. So in no particular order, here are the most popular code repositories available in the market. 

1. Bitbucket

Bitbucket by Atlassian offers an unlimited number of private code repo for Git and Mercurial. This is among the most popular source code repository hosting used by many developers. Among its key features, JIRA integration and efficient code review approval with pull requests are among the top benefits you can take advantage of.

2. SourceForge

Are you looking for an open source community resource? Take a look at what SourceForge can offer. It’s the top choice among the open-source development community, especially for those working for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

With SourceForge, it has an integrated issue tracking and you can view commit history in a graphical format. And, it also features a discussion thread on forums.

3. ProjectLocker

As an enterprise-grade repo host, it has a private source code repository. ProjectLocker also features BuildLocker continuous integration, an automated data backup system, and a web-based management console.

4. GitLab

With GitLab, you can choose the free community edition or a paid subscription for the enterprise edition. One of the highlighted features of their hosting services is the capability to install GitLab on your server. 

It allows you to use the repo hosting service with custom domains and hosts. In addition to that, you can benefit from its built-in CICD for code building, testing, and deployment.

5. CloudForge

CloudForge offers a wide range of tools and features, like version control hosting, granular permissions, and bug and issue tracking. This hosting service from CollabNet also offers Git and Subversion Hosting support.

Facilitate an efficient code management system through a software repository

Allow your developers more time for code production rather than managing it. Take advantage of the benefits that a software repository offers. 

With its features and tools, you can submit code patches in an organized manner. And even when you put your software systems and packages in these repositories, you still own their copyright. 

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