GitLab is a popular platform for managing Git repositories, offering robust tools for collaboration and CI/CD. One of the first steps when working with a GitLab project is cloning it to your local machine.
This guide walks you through how to clone a GitLab repository using HTTPS or SSH.
🔍 What Does “Cloning” Mean?
Cloning a repository means you’re creating a local copy of a GitLab project on your machine so you can work on it, commit changes, and push updates.
🛠 Prerequisites
Make sure you have:
- Git installed on your machine (run
git --versionto verify) - Access to the GitLab repository URL
- Proper authentication (GitLab account with permissions, SSH key or access token, depending on method)
🔗 Step 1: Copy the Repository URL
- Go to the GitLab repository in your browser.
- Click the Clone button (top right or sidebar).
- Choose either:
- HTTPS URL: starts with
https://gitlab.com/... - SSH URL: starts with
gi*@gi****.com:...
- HTTPS URL: starts with
💻 Step 2: Clone the Repository
Open your terminal and run:
For HTTPS:
git clone https://gitlab.com/username/project-name.git
Git may prompt you for your GitLab username and password (or personal access token if 2FA is enabled).
For SSH:
git clone gi*@gi****.com:username/project-name.git
You must have your SSH key added to GitLab for SSH cloning to work.
📂 Step 3: Navigate into the Project
After cloning, move into the project folder:
cd project-name
You now have a complete local copy of the repository and are ready to code, build, or contribute.
🧠 Quick Summary
| Action | Command/Step |
|---|---|
| Copy HTTPS/SSH URL | From GitLab → Clone → Copy URL |
| Clone the project | git clone <URL> |
| Move into project | cd project-name |
🏁 Conclusion
Cloning a GitLab project is a foundational Git skill that allows you to contribute, explore, and collaborate. Whether using HTTPS or SSH, once you’ve cloned the repository, you’re ready to start coding locally.
