How to clone a git repository using the command line

Key takeaways

• Clone a Git repository to create a local copy of the project, allowing you to work on it locally, which enables tasks such as resolving merge conflicts, modifying files, and making commits.

• Use git clone {repository URL} to create a local copy of a Git repository.

• Choose HTTPS, SSH, or GitHub CLI for cloning based on your preferences and application security needs.

• Copy the URL from the GitHub repository's "Code" section.

• Resolve cloning errors by checking the Git version, repository URL, and SSH access.

Imagine having the power to instantly create a personal workspace for any Git project you’re enthusiastic about. Cloning a Git repository gives us this capability, allowing us to replicate the repository on the local computer or codespace. This not only gives us full control over the codebase but also lets us work on tasks like resolving merge conflicts, adding or removing files, or making larger commits with ease. With a local copy in hand, we can work on the project anytime, anywhere. In this Answer, we’ll explore how to clone a Git repository using the command line.

git clone command syntax

Git provides git clone command to clone a repository that is already present on GitHub from the command line.

Cloning an empty repository

Now we’ll learn how to clone an empty repository using the command line. Follow the steps below:

• Open GitHub and go to the main page of the GitHub repository that we want to clone.

• We have three options under the “Quick setup” section for cloning a repository, as listed below:

  • Clone Git repository using HTTPS: By default, the HTTPS option is selected. Click the copy symbol at the end of the URL on the right-hand side.

  • Clone Git repository using SSH: For SSH transfer protocol, include the SSH certificate provided by your organization’s SSH authority, click the SSH option, and then copy the symbol at the end of the URL on the right-hand side.

  • Set up in Desktop: Click “Set up in Desktop” on the left-hand side, download “GitHub Desktop” (if not already), and follow the instructions provided by “GitHub Desktop” to complete the clone.

• Open “Git Bash” or terminal and change the current working directory to the location where we want the cloned directory.

• Type git clone in the terminal, paste the URL we copied earlier, and press “enter” to create the local clone.

Cloning an existing repository

Now we’ll learn how to use command line cloning for an existing repository.

• Open GitHub and go to the GitHub repository that we want to clone.

• Click “Code,” and we’ll have three options for cloning a repository, as listed below:

  • HTTPS: By default, the HTTPS option is selected. Click the copy symbol at the end of the URL on the right-hand side.

  • SSH: For SSH transfer protocol, include the SSH certificate provided by your organization’s SSH authority, click the SSH option, and then copy the symbol at the end of the URL on the right-hand side.

  • GitHub CLI: Select the “GitHub CLI” option and click the copy symbol at the end of the URL on the right-hand side.

Resolving cloning errors

We may encounter multiple errors while cloning, below is a list of some errors and possible solutions:

• Incorrect Git version: Make sure you’re using Git version 1.7.10 or later. Update if necessary.

• Repository not found: Make sure the repository exists and you have access permissions, and check URL spelling and case sensitivity.

• SSH access error: In exceptional cases, you might not have the correct SSH access to a repository. Make sure your personal GitHub account is linked to the SSH key you’re using.

Hands-on practice

Hands-on practice is essential for truly understanding and mastering new concepts. Just as Donald Knuth suggested:

To gain hands-on experience, you can clone any repository using the following terminal. Simply specify the URL of your desired public repository in the git clone command. To verify the cloned repository, use the ls command to view the contents of the directory where you cloned it.

Let’s quickly assess your understanding of how to clone a Git repository method by the following quiz:

GitHub repository cloning allows developers to create a local copy of a project and work on it independently. By using the git clone command and understanding common issues, they can efficiently manage code and contribute effectively.