Duplicating a project in GitLab typically refers to either creating a local copy of the repository (cloning) or creating a new, separate project on the GitLab server based on an existing one. The method you choose depends on your goal: whether you need a local working copy or a completely new, independent project on the server.
Here's how you can duplicate a project using different methods:
Option 1: Duplicating Locally (Cloning)
Cloning a project creates a local copy of the Git repository on your computer. This is essential for contributing to a project, working on code offline, or simply having a backup of the codebase. The reference provided describes the steps for cloning, likely within a Git client or Integrated Development Environment (IDE):
- Use one of the options to open the Get from Version Control dialog: This initial step depends on your specific tool (e.g., your IDE's welcome screen, a menu option like
File > New > Project from Version Control). - Specify the URL of the project you want to clone. This is the project's remote Git URL (HTTP or SSH). You can find this on the project's overview page in GitLab.
- In the Directory field, enter the path to the folder where your local Git project will be created. This determines where the cloned repository will be stored on your local file system.
- Click Clone. The tool will then download the project's history and files to the specified local directory.
Once cloned, you have a complete local duplicate of the project's repository, ready for you to make changes.
Option 2: Duplicating on the GitLab Server
If you need a copy of the project that exists as a separate entity on the GitLab server (potentially including issues, merge requests, wiki, etc., depending on the method), you have a couple of primary options:
Method A: Forking
Forking creates a personal copy of the project under your own namespace or a different group on the GitLab server. This is commonly used when you want to contribute back to the original project, as you can work on your fork and then submit a merge request.
- How to Fork:
- Navigate to the project you want to duplicate.
- Click the Fork button (usually located near the project name).
- Choose the namespace (your user account or a group) where you want the new project to reside.
- GitLab creates a new project under your chosen namespace, linked to the original project.
Method B: Exporting and Importing
Exporting a project creates a compressed file containing the project's repository, along with various project data like issues, merge requests, labels, and wiki (depending on settings and GitLab version). You can then Import this file as a brand new, completely independent project. This method is ideal for creating a standalone copy that is not linked to the original project like a fork is.
- How to Export:
- Navigate to the project you want to duplicate.
- Go to Settings > General.
- Expand the Advanced section.
- Click Export project.
- You will receive an email notification with a link to download the export file once it's ready.
- How to Import:
- From the GitLab dashboard, click New project.
- Click Import project.
- Select GitLab export.
- Enter a name and path for the new project.
- Upload the export file you previously downloaded.
- Click Import project.
This process creates a new project on the server that is a duplicate of the original at the time of export, including historical data.
Choosing the right method depends on your specific duplication needs, whether it's for local development, contributing to the original project, or creating an entirely new, separate project on the GitLab server.
