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Git

Git is a widely used version control system that has revolutionized the way programmers manage and collaborate on software development projects. This tool has become a fundamental pillar for both programmers and SecDevOps teams, and here we will explain why.

Introduction​

Git is a distributed version control system, created by Linus Torvalds in 2005. Its main function is to track changes in the source code and facilitate collaboration between developers on a project. Through Git, programmers can keep an accurate record of modifications made to code, allowing them to:

  1. Version history: Git keeps a complete history of all previous versions of the code. This means you can track who made what changes, when and why. This is invaluable for troubleshooting, identifying errors or reverting to previous versions if necessary.
  2. Parallel work: Several programmers can work on the same project simultaneously without interfering with each other's work. Git makes it easy to merge changes made by different team members.
  3. Efficient collaboration: Git enables developers to collaborate effectively, even on globally distributed projects. Remote repositories and development branches facilitate collaboration and code review.
  4. Error tracking: It is easier to identify when and how errors were introduced in the code. You can use Git to "go back" in history and isolate the source of a problem.

Importance for Programmers​

  • Efficient Code Management: Git provides tools to manage code in an organized and effective manner. Branches allow experimentation and development of new features without affecting the main branch (e.g., "master" or "main").
  • Code Review: Facilitates code review among team members. Pull requests allow other developers to review and comment on modifications before merging them.
  • Individual Control: Each programmer can work in their own local repository, which provides a high degree of autonomy and flexibility.
  • Commits Convention Another important aspect for programmers is to have a convention in the commit messages so that it is easy to read by the whole team. If the company does not have its own convention, Conventional Commits can be used.

Fundamental to SecDevOps​

Git plays a key role in the adoption of SecDevOps practices, which seek to integrate security into all stages of the software development lifecycle. Herein lies its importance:

  • Secure version control: Git guarantees the integrity of the source code, preventing unauthorized modifications. This is essential to protect against attacks and to guarantee the confidentiality and integrity of the code.
  • Auditing and tracking: Git provides a complete change history, making it easy to audit security and track any suspicious activity.
  • Secure collaboration: In a SecDevOps environment, secure collaboration is essential. Git allows you to implement security policies and control who has access to repositories and branches.
  • Automation and continuous deployment: Git integrates seamlessly with automation and continuous deployment tools, ensuring secure and efficient software delivery.

In short, Git is a fundamental tool for both programmers and SecDevOps teams. It facilitates collaboration, code management and security, which contributes to more efficient, secure and quality-oriented software development.

To learn how to manage Git and the Git Flow methodology you have the following sections:

Git: Basics: In this section you will find a detailed explanation of the fundamental Git commands, with practical examples to help you understand how to use Git in your day-to-day work. In addition, interactive resources are included to practice and reinforce knowledge.

Git Flow: This details the Git Flow methodology, a structured strategy for managing branches and releases in collaborative development projects. A guide on how to install and use the git-flow tool to simplify workflow management is also provided.