GitLab is a web-based Git repository manager used to oversee software development processes. It offers an all-in-one platform that combines source code hosting, version control, continuous integration (CI), continuous delivery (CD), project management, and issue tracking. Initially launched as an open-source project, GitLab has evolved into a comprehensive enterprise-level DevOps solution over time.
Key Features of GitLab
- Git-Based Version Control: Enables developers to manage their code easily, with support for branches, tags, and merge operations.
- CI/CD Integration: Accelerates the software development lifecycle through automated testing, integration, and deployment processes.
- Project Management Tools: Supports Agile methodology with features like task boards, burndown charts, milestones, and a labeling system.
- Code Review and Collaboration: Improves code quality within teams through merge requests and inline commenting.
- Self-Hosting Option: GitLab can be deployed both on cloud-based infrastructure and on local servers.