How to update Git Version

How to update git version? In this article, we will cover all the details related to Git and how to update the versions. 

Updated: 11 May, 22 by Susith Nonis 7 Min

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Git is software proven to be very useful to users who write code and track changes made in files. It is accessible through a command terminal or desktop, which has a graphic user interface and can be used by clients such as app or web developers. Git is undoubtedly the most used modern VCS (virtual control system). It tracks changes made to files meaning that you’ll have a record of changes that have been created.

Because of the ability to track everything, you can quickly revert to specific versions whenever needed. Git also aids in more seamless collaborations allowing changes made by several collaborators to be merged into a single source. So, it is still instrumental whether you are just part of a team or are writing code that’s only visible to you.

So how to update git version? In this article, we will cover all the details related to Git and how to update the versions. 

When using Git, your documents and their history are stored on your computer because the software runs locally. Having a central location makes collaborations easier because you can upload your changes there and download changes from other team members. 

Since changes are automatic, each person can work on different parts of this project and merge these changes later without losing anything.

1.   Git repositories

A Git repo has all the project files and the complete revision history. Developers can take an ordinary folder and request Git to make a repository out of it. This creates a “.git” subfolder with all the metadata needed to track changes.

If you use a Unix-based OS like macOS, you’ll discover that folders and files starting with a period are concealed. Hence, you will not see the “.git” folder when you use macOS Finder, although the file is actually there. The only way to locate it is if you show hidden files.

2.   Remote repositories

By storing your copy of the Git repository with an online host, you get a centrally-located point where you can upload changes and download some from other individuals. Once you’ve set up your repo, you can upload your files and history there. Additionally, after someone else changes a remote repo, you can download them.

3.   Stage and commit files

When you think of Git as an avenue for keeping records of changes, you may wonder how it is commanded to record them. Each recorded change to your file or file set is referred to as a commit. Before you commit, you have to alert Git about the files you intend to engage. This process is known as staging, and it utilizes the “add” command.

The staging process is vital, and there is a reason why you cannot simply commit a file directly. Say you are working on two files, but only one’s ready to commit. The intention is to only commit the one that is ready but not both. Using Git’s “add” command, you can add documents to a staging area and then commit them.

4.   Pull requests

Pull requests are a procedure used to discuss changes that have been made before they are merged into a codebase. Maybe you are a developer who has just made changes to a new branch and wants to join this branch into the main stem. In this case, you can create a request to get a notification to review your code. The next step is to discuss the changes you’ve made and decide on whether to merge them or not.

Linux

When updating Git on a Linux computer, you must use the correct package manager. Here are the steps to follow when updating Git on Ubuntu:

  1. The first step is to update your system packages using the command below:

sudo apt-get update

  1. Next, update your Git using:

sudo apt-get install git

  1. When you receive a prompt, type “Y,” then press the “Enter” button to confirm your installation.
  2. To verify that the installation is complete, have a look at the Git version again:

git --version

You can also update Git from scratch by using the original source code.

Windows 

Git latest version update on Windows will depend on the Git version you are currently running. If you have any version before 2.14.1, uninstall and install the latest from scratch. 

  • If your Git version is 2.14.2 up to 2.16.1, enter this command into your prompt:

git update

  • If you have a version 2.16.1 upwards, use this command to update your Git:

git update-git-for-windows

Remember to re-check the current version of your Git to confirm the update.

Mac

The simplest way to update the Git software on your Mac is by using the official installer. 

  1. Download the appropriate installation file from the actual Git website.
  2. Run this installation, then follow the install wizard, which will update your Git to the latest version. Using install wizard overrides your current installation.
  3. Enter the command below to confirm your update:

git --version

i.   Performance

Compared to numerous alternatives, Git’s raw performance is solid. Functions like branching, merging, comparing past versions, and committing new changes are optimized by this high performance. Git implements algorithms that use deep knowledge of actual source code file trees, their access patterns, and their manner of modification over time.

Unlike some VCS, this software focuses on the file content rather than falling for the name of files to decide on the tree’s storage and history version.

ii.   Flexibility

One of the key design features of Git is flexibility. It is flexible in different ways: supporting various non-linear development and efficiency in small and large projects. It is also compatible with numerous existing protocols and systems.

iii.  Security

The integrity and security of source code are top priorities in Git’s design. All the objects in the Git repo are secured using SHA1, a cryptographically secure hashing algorithm. These objects include file content, file and directory relationships, versions, and commits and tags. SHA1 protects code and history from malicious and accidental changes ensuring that history is traceable.

Git is a must-have software for web developers and developers alike. When using it, you can branch out from your original code base, which allows you to work more efficiently with fellow collaborators. We hope you will be able to successfully update git version using the commands mentioned above. Ultimately, you’ll enjoy a lot of flexibility in your workflow.

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Susith Nonis

Susith Nonis

I'm fascinated by the IT world and how the 1's and 0's work. While I venture into the world of Technology, I try to share what I know in the simplest way with you. Not a fan of coffee, a travel addict, and a self-accredited 'master chef'.