GitHub is a popular web-based platform that developers use to manage and share their code. It provides a collaborative environment where programmers can work together on projects from anywhere in the world. The platform is built on Git, a version control system created by Linus Torvalds, which helps track changes in code over time. This makes it easier for developers to manage and merge different versions of a project, ensuring that everyone is working with the latest updates.
On GitHub, developers create repositories to store their project files. These repositories can be either public, allowing anyone to view and contribute, or private, restricting access to selected users. One of the key features of GitHub is the ability to create branches from the main project, enabling developers to work on new features or fixes without affecting the primary codebase. Once the changes are ready, a pull request can be made to propose merging these updates back into the main project. This process allows other developers to review and discuss the changes before they are finalized, promoting a collaborative and transparent workflow.
GitHub's extensive toolset includes issue tracking, project management boards, and integration with various other software development tools. This makes it an essential platform for both individual developers and large teams. Many well-known open-source projects, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are hosted on GitHub, making it a hub for innovation and community-driven development. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, GitHub has become the go-to platform for developers looking to collaborate and share their work with a global audience.