With Microsoft’s acquisition of GitHub, many developers are looking for alternatives to host their code. This move by Microsoft, known for acquiring successful technologies, has raised concerns about potential monopolization.
While GitHub may not be everyone’s favorite option, it has been a go-to destination for hosting open source projects. However, the community’s response to the acquisition highlights the need for diverse options in version control systems.
Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives to GitHub available. Although they may not all offer the same comprehensive feature set, they provide suitable choices based on specific project requirements. For those seeking self-hosted solutions to maintain control over their code, here are some recommended options:
1.
GitLab
: An open-source alternative with a free core edition and paid options starting at $4 per user per month. GitLab offers a comprehensive DevOps lifecycle tool including planning, testing, packaging, and releasing functionality, along with wiki and issue-tracking features.2.
Gogs
: For those prioritizing ease of installation, Gogs is an ideal choice. It provides ready-to-use binaries for various platforms and supports Go installation. Despite its lightweight and fast nature, Gogs includes essential features such as a wiki, bug tracking, and version control.3.
Trac
: A minimalistic alternative that emphasizes an enhanced wiki and issue-tracking system for software development projects. Trac supports various version control systems, including Git and Subversion, and offers robust reporting functionality for project monitoring.4.
GitBucket
: A GitHub clone written in Scala, GitBucket is similar to GitHub in terms of its user interface and features. It includes a repository viewer, issue tracking, pull requests, and a wiki. While its feature set may be limited compared to other options, GitBucket offers a familiar experience for those transitioning from GitHub.5.
Mercurial
: A non-Git server alternative that allows conversion of data into Git objects. Mercurial is highly extensible and cross-platform, with numerous extensions to enhance its functionality. Its distributed architecture and ease of use make it a preferred choice among developers.The departure of GitHub has sparked a renewed interest in alternative version control systems. These options empower developers to self-host their code and contribute to the growth of a diverse and competitive ecosystem.
